Wairarapa Midweek Wed 21 June

BINGO! Drag yourself along

mingle session, and “fabulous food”.

This Saturday, Masterton will be hosting a bingo night — with an “outrageous” twist.

The balls and scorecards, caller’s expressions and competitive spirit will be the same … but this game comes with a side of big hair and makeup, Vegas-style lipsync performances, and plenty of off-the-wall humour.

Auckland-based drag performer and television star Anita Wigl’it will be “hostess with the most-ess” at this weekend’s Drag Bingo Masterton! event at the Copthorne Hotel & Resort.

The event, part of Wig’lit’s North Island-wide Drag Queen Bingo tour, will include three competitive rounds of the game of probability, followed by a drag show – featuring the hostess’ trademark camp theatrics and saucy comedic observations – a mix-and-

Wig’lit is best known for co-hosting the TVNZ series House of Drag, and appearing on the wildly popular competition reality show RuPaul’s Drag Race [RPDR] – as a contestant on the spinoff series RPDR Drag Race Down Under and Canada’s Drag Race: Canada vs the World.

On RPDR Down Under, she became a favourite among the show’s international fanbase for her darkly humorous impression of Queen Elizabeth II and her upbeat, irrepressible energy – which won her the title of Miss Congeniality, voted by her castmates.

Drag queen bingo nights first originated in the US as a fundraiser for the LGBTQ+ community during the AIDS crisis, and have become a regular fixture in the New Zealand drag scene.

Wig’lit began hosting drag bingo events in Auckland and Hamilton earlier this

year – and soon found herself flooded with enquiries from further afield. Before long, she had enough bookings for a tour “from Kerikeri down to Wellington”, including stops at Whangarei, Whangaparoa, Tauranga, Rotorua and Palmerston North.

“The response has been huge. I’ve sold more tickets for Drag Queen Bingo than for my comedy shows!” she laughed.

“Drag bingo is a lot of stupid fun: It’s silly, it’s interactive, it’s light-hearted. We add in a lot of outrageous humour – we make the bingo calls a bit risque, which people enjoy.”

“It used to be that bingo was for older retired people, but recently a lot more young people have gotten into it. And they take it pretty seriously – it can get so competitive!

Wigl’it has recently wrapped up a nationwide

Continued on page 6

Erin Kavanagh-Hall erin.kavanagh-hall@age.co.nz

Lots of time to k˜rero

Wairarapa people who struggle to speak are meeting in Masterton twice a month – taking all the time they need to converse, play word games and relax in a safe environment.

They suffer from aphasia, a language disorder usually associated with stroke, but which can also occur with brain injury, brain tumour, or neurological diseases such as dementia.

Aphasia affects a person’s use of language – finding words and holding conversations, understanding spoken language, reading and writing.

The AphasiaNZ Charitable Trust began a Wairarapa Kōrero Club in February, run by Jennifer Buckley, a trained speech and language therapist and the charity’s community adviser for the lower North Island.

“The group has a loose agenda,” she said. “It can be based around conversations, getting people to talk in a safe space. It’s a place to connect, which is pretty powerful.

“We bring conversation topics to the Kōrero Club – perhaps a joke of the day, or word of the day. We can play word games such as Hedbandz, or Hangman. Sometimes we will have a guest speaker, like a speech and language therapist, or someone from Stroke Central.”

Living with aphasia can be isolating and frustrating, Buckley said.

“Aphasia poses huge barriers to day-to-day living. It’s a hidden disability: it doesn’t affect a person’s intelligence but they are often treated that way. There’s a lack of understanding when

Making orchestral learning accessible

offered for students who aren’t able to get to practice on their own.

If you’re lucky enough to see the Wairarapa Youth Orchestra, you may glimpse Wairarapa’s future Mozarts and Beethovens.

Young musicians ranging from five to 17 years old, are experiencing what life in an orchestra looks like – and they’re taking to the stage at the Carterton Events Centre this weekend.

The youth orchestra was created by Caitlin Morris, a composer and cellist living in South Wairarapa.

Morris grew up rurally and said she’s been passionate about making orchestral education accessible after her upbringing provided its own challenges.

Funding for the orchestra relies mainly on community grants and donations. It receives an assemblage of donated instruments from community members, including two flutes, two clarinets, one double bass and one cello.

The orchestra members are tutored by seasoned musicians, some of whom are previous New Zealand Symphony Orchestra members, who offer invaluable feedback to students while they practise.

Committee member Roger Fraser said the first time he saw the students play, he couldn’t believe his eyes.

they start talking, as the other person doesn’t know what’s going on.

“People with aphasia struggle in loud and busy environments, and with not having enough time to say what they want to. The person they’re talking to may jump in and finish their sentence.”

The new Wairarapa group has four people attending regularly, with more showing interest. The group is unusual because it has more than one person with Primary Progressive Aphasia [PPA] – more rare and therefore harder to diagnose. PPA affects about 20 per cent of people with dementia.

June is Aphasia Awareness Month, with the charity hoping to raise its profile and promote a

better understanding of the condition. AphasiaNZ is not government funded and relies on grants and donations to operate. Kōrero Clubs are free, but attendees can become ‘Friends’ of AphasiaNZ for $25.

People can fully recover from aphasia, but some are left with long-lasting effects, Buckley said.

“The brain has an amazing capacity to relearn. However, people talk about recovery not being linear – they have good and bad days and weeks.”

Part of Buckley’s job is building local communities of people with aphasia – including family members or friends of the person with the condition, who are

welcome at the Kōrero Club.

Wairarapa Kōrero Club member Bill Harris said: “I enjoy meeting up with others who understand what it is like to live with aphasia.”

His wife, Shona Harris, added it was great to have Buckley coming to Wairarapa regularly, “keeping locals updated on the latest information and tools available”.

AphasiaNZ offers resources such as a wallet card reading “I Have Aphasia”, an online library and printed resources.

• For more information on the Wairarapa Kōrero Club, email wellington@aphasia. org.nz, or phone Jennifer Buckley on 021 063 9934.

“Based on my own experience, it was very difficult for me to get to my cello lessons,” Morris said.

“Growing up, going to youth orchestra practice was the best day of my week. It’s really important children are given opportunities to learn instruments and express creativity.”

The orchestra also launched a scholarship lesson programme last year, which was initiated to fill a need in the region for accessible and affordable music lessons.

There are even transport options

“I was just blown away. The tutors are unbelievable,” he said.

“They walk around and help the kids if they’re lost, or just not quite on the right page.

A Givealittle page raising about $2000 had been “a huge help”, but Fraser hoped that ticket sales for the upcoming concert would provide another funding boost.

• The Wairarapa Youth Orchestra’s concert, “A Night At The Movies”, will be held on Saturday, June 24, at 3pm. Tickets are available at eventfinda.co.nz

Julia Mahony julia.mahony@age.co.nz

Jennifer Buckley, community adviser for Aphasia New Zealand, hosts a K˜rero Club in Masterton twice a month.

PHOTO/SUPPLIED

The Wairarapa Youth Orchestra is performing a movie matinee this weekend, including themes from Harry Potter, Star Wars and James Bond. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Bella Cleary bella.cleary@age.co.nz

Artist illuminates flawed beauty

A creative vision of strength, vulnerability and “the beauty of human flaws” has placed a decorated Wairarapa photographer in the running for another national accolade.

Greytown-based Esther Bunning is one of the finalists for the 2023 National Contemporary Art Award – open to “eclectic, bold, and original works from artists at all stages of their careers”.

Bunning is among 43 artists of various mediums – selected from a “record-breaking” 420 entrants – in contention for the $20,000 grand prize. All finalists’ work will be showcased in an exhibition at Waikato Museum Te Whare Taonga o Waikato, opening on July 29.

Bunning’s selected piece was taken from a recent body of work: A series of portraits, in her signature experimental style, paying tribute to women’s courage in adversity.

The project, featuring a “diverse” group of women aged 40-65, is inspired

by the Japanese practice of kintsugi – repairing broken pottery using powdered gold or silver. Kintsugi treats the cracks and breakages as an integral part of an object’s history, rather than something to disguise.

Bunning, a winner of multiple New Zealand photography awards and a two-time finalist for the prestigious Parkin Drawing Prize, said she was “thrilled to bits” to be selected – especially on behalf of the women who “showed enormous

bravery in allowing [her] into their world”.

“I’ve worked with some amazing women for this project. The woman in my entry shows vulnerability and strength – the image is powerful and unusual in its light and composition, and it was taken in her own home,” Bunning said.

“As a woman and an artist, the concept of kintsugi resonated with me. I love that it’s part of a broader philosophy of embracing the beauty of human flaws and illuminating our

All set for a polar blast

Bartlett said he enjoyed telling parents the jackets were on the way to MPS.

were happily wearing them through the school gates the following week.”

imperfections. Kintsugi teaches us that our broken places make us stronger.

“I usually get a little intimidated by art awards outside of the photography world, but being a finalist for the Parkin Drawing Prize has given me confidence in giving things a go. Being selected for an award that is broader than photography shows me I’m on the right path.”

Bunning, a photographer of almost three decades, is best known for her artistic

portraiture – using light, texture, and the illusion of movement to create ethereal, luminous images. All her photographic effects, including layering of images in multiple exposure, are done in camera, with minimal use of Photoshop.

She has taken home a string of trophies from the New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography Iris Awards, including Illustrative, Commercial and Creative Photographer of the Year – and the coveted title of Professional Photographer of Year in 2020.

At the 2021 Iris Awards, her photography anthology “The Secret Keeper”, a collaboration with Whanganui artist Catherine Daniels, received a perfect score of 100/100 – the first time this has been awarded in the ceremony’s history.

As a commercial photographer, Bunning usually specialises in family portraits – though she is most passionate about her “community projects”, working with diverse groups of people to explore potentially confronting topics.

As well as her kintsugi anthology, she continues working with Daniels on “The Secret Keeper” project, which delves into the latter’s experience of childhood trauma and parental neglect. Her recently completed project, “Pink”, captured Wairarapa teenagers sharing their experience of bullying, and she is working on a longer-term project, “Solace”, themed around grief.

Her selected entry for last year’s Parking Drawing Prize, “Cerebral Unravel”, was based around dementia and its effect on family and loved ones.

“I do often work with uncomfortable topics. I’m passionate about being an illuminator with my work, and giving people who can’t speak for themselves a visual voice. My kintsugi images are in keeping with this,” Bunning said.

This year’s National Contemporary Art Award will be adjudicated by Melanie Oliver, arts curator at Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū.

The winners will be announced on July 28.

at school warm, dry, and able to focus on learning,” Chapman said.

Every pupil from Masterton Primary School [MPS] now has a warm, rainproof jacket in their wardrobe, thanks to a donation by national charity KidsCan.

The children are now set for what winter may throw at them, after a KidsCan representative arrived at the school on June 2 and handed out 250 navy jackets – fleece-lined, waterproof and with a detachable hood.

MPS principal Gene

“It was a fantastic surprise for our families. One family has three boys, with another child on the way, so the [winter jacket] cost factor has been removed for them.

“It breaks down barriers for many.”

Jacket sizes were arranged in advance for the children and, when they arrived, the pupils reacted with “great excitement”, Bartlett said.

“The children think the jackets are very stylish and

KidsCan supports 897 schools and 206 early childhood centres nationwide – and now partners with seven schools in Wairarapa. MPS was one of 22 schools to join the KidsCan programme this term.

“A warm jacket has become a luxury for some children as families grapple with the rising cost of living,” KidsCan chairperson Julie Chapman said.

“We know this winter

will be a particularly tough one for many.”

This year, 74,000

children nationwide would get a new jacket from KidsCan. “They can arrive

“However, we can’t keep up with demand. More than 100 schools are still waiting for help, and we desperately need donations to help ensure children don’t go hungry and cold this winter.”

As part of the KidsCan programme, MPS can now order food, shoes, and health products as needed. The school already runs a breakfast club, which includes “Baked Bean Tuesday”.

Bartlett thanked ASB for supporting the KidsCan programme at MPS and for providing every pupil with a new drink bottle.

Principal Gene Bartlett [left], ASB representative Georgina Toseland and Emily Murrin of KidsCan, with some of the MPS pupils all wrapped up for winter.

PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Erin Kavanagh-Hall erin.kavanagh-hall@age.co.nz

Julia Mahony julia.mahony@age.co.nz

Greytown photographer and National Contemporary Art Award finalist Esther Bunning at this year’s NZ Art Show.

PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Soldier rides through Masterton

MARK PACEY of the Wairarapa

Archive meets the historians behind the new memorial to two Wairarapa regiments and their military headquarters.

Eagle-eyed Masterton locals will have noticed something has changed on the corner of Lincoln Rd and Chapel St.

In an area flanked by a pair of seats, a memorial has gone up. Commemorating two military groups and the long-gone Masterton Drill Hall they once used, the new installation recognises an important part of our history.

The memorial is the result of a huge effort. The idea was originally conceived by Mastertonian Alan Fielding in 2016 as a memorial to the 17th Ruahine Regiment and 9th Wellington East Coast Mounted Rifles [WECMR] – in which many men from Wairarapa served during World War I. The project grew when Fielding chatted with historian Neil Frances who had a similar idea: A

memorial to the regiments’ official headquarters in Masterton.

“Alan had the original thought about the regiments, whereas my idea had been to memorialise the Drill Hall. I think we realised that, effectively, they memorialised the same thing,” Frances said.

The Drill Hall was built in 1886 and originally housed the local volunteer militia units, and was also used by the community for public events. In 1911, it became the Wairarapa headquarters for the New Zealand Territorial Army.

If you were called up or volunteering for service in Wairarapa during both World Wars, you went to the Drill Hall to sign your recruitment papers. Many thousands of men during these two conflicts started their journey into the armed forces in this building.

The men who fought in the Ruahine Regiment and WECMR took part in some of the most famous and bloody battles during World War I: Including Gallipoli, the Somme, Messines, Ypres and Passchendaele.

After World War II ended, the Drill Hall was replaced by a new building and the original was used

by the Masterton Amateur Theatrical Society until 1979. It was demolished in 1981.

Today the car park of Waiata House sits where the Drill Hall once stood. Despite it surviving for almost 100 years, very few photographs of the hall remain.

Fielding and Frances found eager encouragement in the community for the memorial project. Former Masterton Mayor Lyn Patterson was happy for the memorial to be erected at the Lincoln Rd site as part of the garden feature there. WBS was the first organisation to

pledge funding for the project, followed by Masterton District Council’s Masterton Arts Fund and property developer and builder David Borman.

Fielding and Frances were inspired by the Remutaka Crossing Memorial, designed by Wairarapa artist Niko Thomsen. On request from the historians, Thomsen completed the silhouette designs for the soldier and horse – which were incorporated into the memorial layout by Sign Factory manager Matthew Bain.

Various organisations and individuals assisted with building the memorial, including Calibre Consulting, Graham McClymont, Tick to Dig, Higgins Contractors, and stonemason Mike Dunn. Bain was the project manager for the site, and Borman also provided building assistance.

“It was a network of local people and local knowledge that allowed the threads to come together,” Frances said.

Now it has been completed, what do the two historians think of the memorial?

“The idea with this type

of memorial is to get away from a slab of stone or concrete,” Fielding said.

“What I was trying to do here, and I think we have succeeded, is to produce something visually interesting, that it hits you immediately.”

“The figures look good, the sign looks good, it has enough information without going into screeds,” Frances added.

“If someone stops at the sign, reads it in a minute or two, looks at the figures and moves on, they have done what we hoped the monument would do. They have looked at it, thought about it and learned something.”

Project manager and sign writer Matthew Bain [left] and historians Alan Fielding and Neil Frances at the new memorial to the Masterton Drill Hall.

PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Wigl’it in the house for big bingo event

Continued from page 1

tour of her one-woman comedy special “Funny Gurl” – and said, despite stereotypes and some initial anxiety, she receives a rapturous response in the regional centres.

“People say things like, ‘aren’t you worried? Small towns have small minds!’

“But I’ve found the smaller places have been the most big-hearted and welcoming. Whenever I do a show, there’s always so much love in the room.

“I think people in smaller places are more appreciative – in Auckland, you can see a drag show every week. Whereas for somewhere like Masterton, this might be the first drag event they’ve had in a few years.”

Wigl’it first fell in love with drag back in 2008, while ushering at Auckland’s Civic Theatre. One of the productions was the musical adaption of Priscilla: Queen of the Desert – and the young Wigl’it was transfixed.

“That was the first time I’d seen drag queens perform. The costumes and makeup were incredible.

“I ended up dressing in drag for our work Christmas party — and I had a Priscilla theme for my 21st.”

Wig’lit started doing regular drag shows at local gay club, Family Bar — where she met best friend and business partner Kita Mean [winner of RPDR Down Under Season 1]. The pair went on to perform together as the comedic duo “Kita and Anita”, take over ownership of Caluzzi Cabaret on Karangahape Rd – one of the city’s most beloved drag venues – and present and judge two seasons of House of Drag.

On RPDR Down Under, Wig’lit won the iconic Snatch Game challenge – a parody of the UK game show BlanketyBlank, where the queens have to impersonate a celebrity and make the host [RuPaul] laugh with their answers. Wig’lit brought down the house as the late Queen Elizabeth [featuring a quip that was censored by the BBC] –but was, much to fans’ consternation, eliminated in the fourth episode after a sewing challenge.

Wigl’it described Drag Race as “loads of fun”, if a

significant trip beyond her comfort zone.

“We did a lot of things we’d never done before. I had no idea how to sew or design an outfit, but I had no choice but to give it a go.

“Snatch Game was actually petrifying. As drag queens, we sometimes impersonate celebrities — but it’s a completely different thing to make jokes while in character as that person. If you do get a good joke in there, it’s a huge relief, but your next one could fall completely flat.

“When I won, I was amazed.”

Despite her early exit, Wig’lit said Drag Race has opened up some “incredible opportunities”: As well as appearing on the Canadian show, she has done several tours of the US, UK and Australia, performed at the Adelaide and Perth Fringe Festivals, and will shortly take her show “Funny Gurl” to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Though drag is “having a moment in the sun” in New Zealand, Wig’lit has

By Kathryn Burnett

noticed an increase in negative online sentiment” towards drag queens, inspired by a recent backlash against the queer community in the US. While she is happy to hit “block and delete”, she acknowledged it was more important than ever for

New Zealanders to support their Rainbow loved ones.

“If you see people running down the queer community, call it out. Don’t be afraid to challenge their beliefs.

“Queer people aren’t going anywhere – it’s not a choice for us. When people

are against us, it just makes it uncomfortable to be ourselves.

“So, when people stand up for us, it goes a long way.”

• Tickets to Drag Bingo Masterton! are available at eventfinda.co.nz

Wigl’it hosts a drag bingo event –which blends competitive bingo with “outrageous” humour and drag performance. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Directed by Maria Hinton

The height of Webster’s garage

For the first time, Masterton has played host to the southern rally of the Lilliput Caravan Club of New Zealand.

The club, with a membership stretching from Kerikeri in the North to Otago in the South [and two members in Australia], is dedicated to preservation and enjoyment of the unmistakable Lilliput caravans – which were manufactured in Auckland from the early 1960s through to the late 70s.

The club holds six regional rallies each year, with the southern rally held this year in May at Mawley Park, attracting members from Taupo to the bottom of the South Island.

Rally organiser Jude Willis, who lives on the Kapiti Coast, grew up in Masterton and wanted to show her fellow Lilliput devotees “some of the lovely spots I grew up around”.

Lilliput caravans, originally constructed from plywood, are instantly recognisable by their rounded contours, coloured racing stripes, and very low profile [height]. The model was

designed by former coach driver Bruce Webster to be lightweight and easily towed by “an average family’s car” – its profile determined by the height of Webster’s Onehunga garage doorway.

To compensate for the low height, the caravan’s floor was secured to the bottom of the chassis rails, allowing owners to step down into the living area and gain an additional 7.5cm of headroom.

Webster named his creation after the country of Lilliput from Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels

– an island inhabited by a tiny race of people.

Lilliput owners Bev Evans and Wendy Chung, who also joined the Masterton event, have been club members for 14 years. When they purchased their caravan off the side of the road, they didn’t realise what they had bought.

“My kids laughed when I brought it home. They said, ‘Mum, what are you going to do with that?’” Evans said.

She and Chung didn’t know about the Lilliput Caravan Club until taking

a holiday to Awakeri Springs, south of Rotorua. As they were driving, they noticed people flashing their lights at them.

“We thought that was weird. Then we turn into the holiday park, and this woman was running across the field toward us followed by all these people,” Chung said.

“Then we turn the corner, and there are lots of caravans like ours all parked up at the end of their rally.”

The woman running across the field was Therese Cummings, one

of the club’s founding members.

“If you see another Lilliput, you gravitate towards it,” Cummings said. “And you recognise people by the colour of the flash [stripe] on their caravan.”

Lilliput founder Bruce Webster ran a successful enterprise until 1976, and was succeeded by John Rolfe. In 1979, the Muldoon government introduced a 20 per cent sales tax on new caravans. Customers cancelled their orders, and the business folded – along with the entire caravan industry in New Zealand.

It was 1988 when Cummings, her late husband Jim, and a couple of other Lilliput owners decided to form a club. “So we put some feelers out to see if anyone wanted to get together in Taupo

in February – and over 40 caravans turned up!” Cummings said.

“Bruce Webster turned up to the second rally and was delighted a club had been started.”

Caravan club members own a variety of Lilliput models – some have been refurbished to suit modern requirements, others still look “as good as new” after 60 years with only a new external paint job.

Southern rally event organiser Jude Willis said ownership of a Lilliput caravan is a pre-requisite to joining the club.

“If you didn’t own a Lilliput you wouldn’t want to join,” she laughed. “We’re a very caring group, but sometimes all we talk about is our caravans!”

• More information can be found online at www.lilliput.org.nz

14 & UNDER WINNER: Henare Kerehi

2nd Place: Fynn Brown and Leah Bunny

3rd Place: Olivia Church

OVER

WINNER: Ruby Matthews RUNNER UP: Charlie Matthews

GROUPS WINNER: Dead End

UP: Rampage PEOPLES CHOICE

(voted by the audience):

Nyree Tomkins news@age.co.nz

Bev Evans and Wendy Chung’s Lilliput caravan – towed by a car of the same vintage.

PHOTO/NYREE TOMKINS

Club founding member Therese Cummings inside her caravan.

PHOTO/NYREE TOMKINS

GardenYarn with GardenBarn

it’s rose planting time

avoid disappointment

BUSH ROSES CLIMBERS

SIR EDMUND HILLARY: Pure white with lemon infused centres

A MOMENT IN TIME: Champagne blooms in new vintage ower form

BIG PURPLE: Superb picking ower with overpowering fragrance

BELLE DU JOUR: Clusters of cupped yellow blooms with fruity perfume

BERRY NICE: Shades of berry magenta pink owers

MADAM ALFRED CARRIERE: Very fragrant, large white owers tinted with salmon

FOURTH OF JULY: Flowers are red splashed with white and fragrant

HOKEY POKEY: Clusters of fragrant honeycomb coloured blooms

BEST WISHES: Lovely deep yellow owers that quickly repeat

PADDY STEPHENS: Lightly scented salmon owers with perfect form

AUCKLAND METRO: Loads of fragrance on a healthy plant

CASINO SOFT: yellow fragrant owers

CHAMPAGNE MOMENT: Pale apricot in the centre with creamy white edges

CHOCOLATE PRINCE: Tall growing, sweet soft fragrance, repeats well

BLACK BEAUTY: Very black buds opening to classic dark red

ORANGES & LEMONS: Fully double blooms with good disease resistance

COCONUT ICE: Slightly fragrant, soft pink owers that fade to white

COMPASSION: A very strong grower with fragrant salmon pink owers shaded apricot orange

PERCEPTION:

Soft apricot fragrant owers edged with silvery pink

WISH COME TRUE: Soft lemon to creamy white cupped blooms with refreshing fragrance

PATIO & SHRUBLET

CUTIE PIE:

Masses of petite coral peach owers

DEAR ONE: Porcelain pink blooms in profusion on neat & tidy bush

YABBA DABBA DOO: Humongous clusters of warm orangepink owers with yellow eyes.

MY ROSE COLLECTION

FAITHFUL COMPANION: Soft yellow/ orange owers that fade to yellow/pink

The following are some of the roses that belong to the ‘My Rose Collection’, bred by Bob Matthews, the result of a lifelong passion for creating beautiful, healthy roses.

MY

HOT & SASSY: A tidy rounded plant with bold scarlet owers with a yellow eye

THANK YOU: Small soft pink, fragrant double owers

SHOP

The region’s young musical theatre, rock, country, hip-hop dance and barbershop stars [and more] dazzled the audience at the 2023 Grand Final of Talent Wairarapa, held at Carterton Events Centre last weekend.

JADE CVETKOV and REAGAN GUNDERSON captured the action on stage.

Ruby Matthews, winner in the Over 14 section, performs her original song.

Henare Kerehi, winner in the Under 14 section, performs “I Have Nothing” by Whitney Houston.

Dead End, winners in the Group category, chat with MC Kieran McAnulty.

Fynn Brown and Leah Bunny, second place in the Under 14 category, perform “Anything You Can Do”, from the musical Annie Get Your Gun.

Olivia Church performs the country hit “Before He Cheats”, by Carrie Underwood.

Barbershop quartet Quartex performs an arrangement of “What

A Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong.

A hip-hop routine from the KTS Dancers.

Tina [and capitalism] is alive and well

You know you’re doing well when the death rumours start circling.

Last month, the internet was set ablaze by the apparent tragic passing of Tina from Turners – you know, from the adverts. Who loves cars.

“Tina from Turners died” started trending on Google – increasing by 250 per cent over 24 hours. “I cried when they said it on the radio,” a distraught fan lamented via Tik Tok. “Our whole class was sad,” another replied.

As it transpired, everyone’s favourite polowearing auto enthusiast was very much alive. Rock legend Tina Turner, who died on May 24, wasn’t as lucky. Young Kiwis – the state of your musical knowledge has me concerned. In fairness, the two Tinas’ names do sound similar ...

I’ll admit it: New Zealand does television commercials well. Evident from Tina’s “demise”, our strength seems to be creating relatable, effortlessly charming, and relentlessly chipper characters that become

inextricably linked to national brands. One does not simply spend a fortune on “reasonably priced” homewares without the effervescent encouragement of “the Briscoes Lady” Tammy Wells. Rotorua radio host LJ Dobbin went a step further and got Wells’ face tattooed on her ankle.

In March, analytics firm The Research Agency surveyed New Zealanders on their favourite adverts, and published the Top 10 “winners” online. Tina came in at number 6, with fans using superlatives such as “hilarious, vibrant, positive, and happy”. Turners must also feel “vibrant and positive” –since their leading lady came along, the business’ market share has increased from below 6 per cent to over 8.5 per cent.

Topping the list was Trustpower’s “Meant to

be Together” – featuring an amputee and his three-legged rescue dog. You can’t go wrong with animals. Who else remembers the advert from the 90s with the terrier embarking on a countrywide journey to get home? I’m sniffling as we speak. Coming in at number 2 was ASB’s series featuring Ben and Amy – the adorable childhood sweethearts hunting for their first home. “Kiwis have become invested in Ben and Amy’s story; they look forward to seeing what comes next,” The Research Agency theorised. I’d say a lot of Kiwis are living vicariously – that first home is looking elusive. The romantic in me, however, is hooked: Ben’s mission to find Amy a house with underfloor heating makes a refreshing change from the “incompetent but hilarious”

husband archetype.

The number 3 spot went to ANZ and the Sharma whanau – specifically young Sameer obsessively saving energy to impress his crush. In the three months since the advert launched, 1400 ANZ customers took out loans to fulfil their energy efficiency goals. Hopefully, not for romantic motivation.

Advice for Sameer: Save energy because it’s the right thing to do. Girls come and go; climate change is hanging around for a while.

On that note, some of my favourites are Meridian Energy’s “Be Good To Nature” adverts, rated at number 9. I love that Mother Nature is a plus-size woman. Positive representation is important, and you can’t get more positive than the personification of Planet Earth. Especially who can power a wind farm along to an Aretha Franklin soundtrack.

We like to think we’re

immune to the wicked charms of advertising. But the survey results would say otherwise. The brand campaigns are working – Kiwis are watching and spending accordingly. And if we’re not opening our wallets, we’re crying over disabled pets, grateful for fuller-figured heroines, and wishing Ben and Amy were a real couple. And mourning Tina’s “death” on TikTok. Because no one loves cars like Tina.

To the advertising executives of New Zealand – well done. To Tina from Turners – you’re living your best life, and that’s awesome.

To parents of young people – play them some Tina Turner. Cheers.

The Wairarapa Midweek is subject to New Zealand Media Council procedures. A complaint must first be directed in writing to the editor’s email address. If not satisfied with the response, the complaint may be referred to the Media Council P.O Box 10-879, Wellington 6143. Or use the online complaint form at www.presscouncil.org.nz. Please include copies of the article and all correspondence with the publication.

FIVE MINUTES WITH ...

...Davey Hughes: Mangaterere local, Swazi Apparel founder and intrepid hunter

As a child, I spent a lot of time…

In the hills, building forts and exploring the bush around Wainuiomata. My friends and loved ones always say I am…

Such a stubborn cuss at times! But I consider myself “resolute”.

The famous New Zealander [living or dead] I’d like to have a meal with is…

Te Rauparaha. I’d have so many questions to ask the man. Admire, or loathe him, he was a man of his times.

CONTACT US

The most delicious ice cream ˜ avour is…

Hokey pokey – without a doubt.

I would love more time to…

Dance.

My favourite local shop is…

Homegrown Butchery in Masterton.

The family member I most admire is…

My wife Caroline. I’ve never met anyone so kindhearted, or as wild as her.

A song I know all the words to is…

Drumming Song by Florence + the Machine.

Wairarapa needs…

A few more roundabouts!

No, seriously, the Wairarapa simply needs to realise what a very special place it is. Man, I wish I’d moved here 20 years ago.

The best accompaniment for a cup of co° ee or tea is…

A ginger biscuit from Clareville Bakery. They make any cuppa taste sublime.

You may share your opinion in print and online. To comment online, message our Facebook page and feel free to comment on any of the stories. Please email letters to midweek@age.co.nz or post to Wairarapa Midweek letters, P.O. Box 445, Masterton. Include name, address, and phone number. Noms de plume are not accepted. Letter writers’ town of origin will be published with the letter. Letters should be no more than 250 words, and may be edited for space and clarity.

MIDWEEK PHOTOS

Have you got a photo you want to share with Wairarapa?

Whether it’s a reader photo, a cutie, or a snap of you with your Midweek, email it to midweek@age.co.nz with ‘Midweek Photo’ in the subject line, and it could be featured in this segment.

READER PICS

PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Reader Toni sent in this spectacular photo – taken in her backyard on Bidwills Cutting Rd, which is “usually ˜ ooded with tui”.

PHOTO/TONI IRO

light and space

Ask anyone to define “sculpture” and they will inevitably tell you it is three-dimensional and made of stone, metal, clay or wood – carved, cast or modelled.

Today sculptors use an enlarged range of materials, technologies and sites to challenge, redefine, stretch and manipulate those notions to deliver the concepts and ideas that concern them. They are sometimes subversive but always inventive and individual.

ExtraIn 1963, six years before the gallery opened, a group of supporters suggested buying a work by prominent British Modernist sculptor

Barbara Hepworth to stimulate public interest and give a future gallery a focus that was not regional and provincial but national and international.

Forms in Movement – Galliard was bought with money raised in the community. The balance was donated by John Maunsell, owner of Masterton business Hansells. The Hepworth purchase piqued Maunsell’s interest in sculpture and was the catalyst for the Hansells Sculpture Awards, a national art award exclusively for contemporary sculpture.

In 1970 the Wairarapa Arts Centre announced a

ORGANIC MATTERS

prize to be known as the Hansells Prize for Contemporary Sculpture. It was conceived to be an annual event and envisioned to be a way to highlight sculpture and encourage emerging and established sculptors.

The sculpture awards of the 1970s and 1980s did so much to promote sculpture and to encourage sculptors

collection. Through the generous donations and support from the Friends of Aratoi, collectors, and organisations, the range of work we are able to exhibit represents emerging and established artists.

Light and Space presents the larger sculptures from the Aratoi Collection –

for a while. The exhibition includes the works on permanent display in the Aratoi courtyard and foyer and we invite you to consider them anew.

• Light and Space: Sculpture from the Collection will be showing until November 26.

Wine sector rises to organic demand from Europe

New Zealand’s organic wine sector is going through a growth spurt.

About 8 per cent of the country’s wine producers are fully or partially certified as organic, with their produce bringing in approximately $65 million a year – making up almost 10 per cent of the total organic market.

The move to organic production is gaining momentum in Wairarapa – due to intentional demand, climate change, and a growing awareness of the benefits.

The standard vineyard management processes dominated by synthetic chemical sprays have recently begun to evolve, with many major producers pushing to reduce their usage as consumers become more cautious about the possible effects.

On Giants’ Shoulders in Martinborough is a fully BioGro certified producer. Owner and chief winemaker Wilco Lam said adopting organic and biodynamic processes was important not only to him personally but to the company’s German investors.

Organic wines are increasingly becoming the preferred choice among European consumers, with many wine areas being converted to organic, Lam said.

“With everything we do, they want to make sure our carbon footprint is really low and our farming practices are [sustainable], which suits us, too.”

The vineyard is completely dry-farmed with no irrigation, which allows natural expression of the environment in the quality of the grapes, and builds some resilience in the vineyard against future changes to the climate.

“There are plenty of tricks to manage climate change in time. All these practices in the vineyard have a big impact on the wine style that comes up,” Lam said.

Fellow winegrower and Wairarapa Winegrowers Association chair Jannine Rickards works on several organically managed plots

and is looking to expand them.

She said the climate is a major factor in vineyard management, and growers must be able to work around changing conditions and think dynamically.

“There’s a lot of discussion around climate change, temperature

increases, and increased rainfall – and how we, especially as organic growers, combat those events.”

Richards thinks organic wines glow brighter.

“Let the wine shine and have a bit of character or essence that shows diversity. Not everything has to be perfect.”

The team at On Giants’ Shoulders – a Martinborough-based producer of organic wine.

PHOTO/LUCIA ZANMONTI

Greer Twiss, Line of Sight, 1973, painted steel, bronze, twine.

PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Claudia O’Neill

gives protection

pregnancy helps keep both you and your baby safe

Keeping well with Wallis Chiropractic

Dr Melanie Wallis, a Masterton chiropractor for nearly 20 years, is well qualified. With eight years of study and three qualifications under her belt in physiology, anatomy, and chiropractic, her focus is on assisting you to achieve the best possible outcome in your health goal.

“I work with patients from the cradle to the grave,” Melanie says, “including babies, ACC injuries, sportspeople, older people, and pregnant women.” With pregnant women, Melanie helps ensure the baby is positioned well and the pelvis is ready to go.

Stress management is also important to Wallis Chiropractic. “More people are anxious right now,” says Melanie. “When we are under stress, we produce cortisol. In small doses, this is good for us. Too much cortisol, however, can make muscles sore and affect our nervous system.” She works in a holistic way across the chemical,

physical and emotional aspects of our wellness.

Not only does chiropractic address pain but patients often report also feeling more energised, sleeping better, and having increased concentration.

Crucial to Melanie’s work is getting to know us and our lives. She shares a rapport and a history with us that enables her to read our body language and recognise when she hasn’t got to the bottom of what’s going on. Cultural sensitivities are important, and Melanie always talks through what she intends to do before she touches someone. She wants you to be an active participant in your health.

Melanie Wallis is well connected with complementary health professionals including GPs, massage practitioners, radiology firms for x-rays, and TBI physiotherapy which is situated in the same building as Wallis Chiropractic in Masterton’s Park Street Health Centre.

Adding to her repertoire, Melanie is also known to adjust the spine of small animals such as piglets, cats, and dogs to help improve their health. As one of six chiropractors in her family, Melanie comes from solid chiropractic stock. “Family gatherings can be quite entertaining,” she says with a grin.

5 Park Street, Masterton 06 377 3117

backonyourfeetnz@gmail.com

After access to clean water, immunisation is the most effective health intervention in the world for saving lives.

Immunisation stops adults and children from getting really sick and having to go to hospital. Immunisation stops people dying from diseases that could be prevented

Immunisation reduces the risk of having longterm health issues and disabilities caused by disease

Immunisation stops people from passing diseases to their whānau, particularly to those who may not have strong immune systems

Immunisation keeps your community safe by stopping the spread of disease – sometimes called ‘herd immunity’ Immunisation may mean having to take less time off school or work due to your whānau getting sick Immunisation during

Many vaccinations recommended are free for older people.

Influenza [the flu]

This is a serious illness that can sometimes be fatal. Every year around 400 people die from influenzas. People of any age who contract the flu can end up in hospital, more likely if you’re older or have an underlying medical condition.

Influenza can make an existing medical condition, such as asthma, emphysema, or diabetes a lot worse. The vaccine is made from a killed virus and cannot give you the flu.

Every year the influenza vaccine is adjusted to protect against strains of the influenza virus that are most likely to be circulating the following winter as these change each year.

The vaccine is free and recommended every year from age 65 years onwards.

Covid 19 – boosters:

If you are aged 30 and over, you can have a booster regardless of the number of boosters you

have already had.

To get a booster

You must have had at least your first two covid-19 vaccinations

It’s recommended you wait at least six months since your last covid-19 vaccine or if you have had a covid-19 infection

You can check online at My Health Account or My Vaccine Record.

Boosters are especially recommended for:

All people over 65 Māori and Pacific people aged 50 and over

Pregnant people with health conditions that put them at higher risk of severe illness from covid-19

People with disability with significant or complex health needs

People with serious mental health conditions

Young people aged 12 to 15 who have a medical condition that increases the risk of severe illness from covid-19 [talk to your usual doctor, nurse, or healthcare provider about whether this is recommended and how to get a prescription].

Continued on page 18

WAIRARAPA

Continued from page 16

Whooping cough

If you spend time with babies and young children, talk to your doctor or nurse about how immunisation can protect you and your family from other infectious diseases like Whooping Cough.

Shingles [or Herpes Zoster]

This is a painful rash affecting a particular nerve. It’s a long-term effect of chickenpox that can occur many years after a person has recovered from the initial disease.

It can affect anyone who has previously had chicken pox and is more common in older people.

Shingles usually lasts 10-15 days but can cause scarring and loss of vision if it affects the eyes.

One of the most serious complications, particularly among older people, is nerve pain that lasts long after the rash disappears. About one in three New Zealanders will get shingles in their lifetime – the vaccine is free at age 65 and over.

Measles

New Zealand is at high risk of a measles outbreak.

This year we’ve already had cases of measles reach our shores.

Not enough people in New Zealand are immunised against measles, which means it could just take a single case of measles to start an outbreak.

We need at least 95 per cent of people living in New Zealand to be immunised to prevent an outbreak of measles. Importantly, this would also protect babies too young to be vaccinated, and those who are severely immunocompromised.

On average, one dose is 95 per cent effective against measles, and two doses is more than 99 per cent effective against measles.

The MMR vaccine is free for all children in NZ, and all adults born after 1969 if they’re eligible for free NZ healthcare.

Of all diseases, measles is one of the most dangerous and contagious. It’s so infectious that, if you’re not vaccinated and encounter someone who has measles, you’re very likely to catch it and pass it on to others.

Measles spreads through coughing and sneezing. It can cause a rash, ear infection, diarrhoea, and

seizures caused by fever.

In one in every 1000 cases, it causes inflammation of the brain [encephalitis]. Some people who develop encephalitis die, while one in three are left with permanent brain damage.

Measles can also lead to pneumonia, which is the main cause of death from measles.

If you get measles while you’re pregnant it can make you very sick and can harm your baby.

Measles is now the third most common vaccinepreventable cause of death among children throughout the world.

During New Zealand’s last measles outbreak in 2019, 40 per cent of children who caught

measles were admitted to hospital.

Combined tetanus and diphtheria

Tetanus is a serious infection caused when bacteria that live in dirt and dust enter through a cut or wound. Tetanus causes muscle stiffness, painful spasms and sometimes death.

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection of the throat that can close off the airway. It can also affect the heart and nervous system and cause death.

Because of immunisation, diphtheria is now extremely rare in New Zealand although it can still be brought back into the country through travel.

The combined vaccine is

recommended when you reach the age of 45 and again at the age of 65 to boost the immunity you received as a child. The vaccine is free.

Look after your health by immunising – keep your family/whanau safe from disease.

NOW OPEN

Growing the Harvey Norman family with a Masterton store

Masterton’s Harvey Norman store, situated in Solway, opened on 20 June, making it the 45TH Harvey Norman store in New Zealand.

“We are super excited to be opening in Masterton,” says Tarryn van Niekerk, Head of People Operations for New Zealand’s Harvey Norman. The Masterton store will run with about 50 sta , 95 percent of whom have been recruited within the district. “We’re looking forward to the new team developing and becoming part of the Harvey Norman family.”

The brand spanking new store in Masterton is a 6,000m2, single storey building, including onsite warehousing. It’s amongst the largest regional Harvey Norman stores in the

Gokul, Penny, Sian

country and will house the full suite of Harvey Norman departments to cater for all its home furnishing and entertainment needs. “There are

nearly 150 car park spaces, too.” Harvey Norman was founded in Australia in 1982 and introduced to New Zealand in 1997, subsequently becoming a household name as one of New Zealand’s leading retailers of computers, electrical products, furniture, and bedding. Today, as well as the 45 stores in New Zealand, there are nearly 200 Harvey Norman stores in Australia and dozens more across the globe.

The diverse Harvey Norman team in New Zealand is made up of over 2,000 individuals who each bring their unique expertise to the workforce.

“The cornerstone of New Zealand’s Harvey Norman is the fact that it’s like a family business,” says Tarryn.

“Each department, each store, and the entire business, operates as a close-knit family.”

Tarryn has been with Harvey Norman for about nine years. She knows

exactly how to recruit for the right attitudes to ensure an ongoing positive team culture and strong customer focus.

Tarryn’s an advocate of Harvey Norman’s aim to foster sta success and grow careers within the business. “Harvey Norman invests in training sta . Most of our successful store managers started as part-time sales consultants and have been on positive career trajectories ever since.”

The Harvey Norman brand is simple: it’s a great place to shop. The business is dedicated to o ering the best range of products at the best price, providing great service, and prioritising customer needs.

“Our incredible sta are the people who help achieve our mission to be the market leading home appliances, technology, furniture, and bedding retailer in New Zealand.”

MASTERTON’S HARVEY NORMAN STORE, NOW OPEN

Introducing Proprietor Gokul Santhamurthy TECHNOLOGY

“Retail is in my blood,” says Gokul Santhamurthy, Proprietor of the Computer Mobile & Technology Department in the new Harvey Norman store in Masterton. “My father and my grandfather before him were both in retail back in India.”

Gokul moved to New Zealand in 2004 and “on Saturday 17 December 2005,” he started working for Harvey Norman as a sales consultant. Eighteen years later, he’s still there having worked for several proprietors and general managers before becoming a proprietor himself. Gokul had “the privilege” of eighteen months of management training within Harvey Norman and over six years of being a manager across stores in Gisborne, Henderson, and Napier before landing in Masterton. “My role is not just a job, it’s a career.”

“My wife and I have moved to Solway, close to the Harvey Norman store and within walking distance of the local school.”

Gokul Santhamurthy can’t believe how lucky he is.

“I’m following my dreams,” he says. “I’ve always wanted to be in business, and I have this amazing opportunity. I’m excited about upskilling a new team of nine local hires and getting to know people in the community – our customers.”

Gokul is knowledgeable about the products he sells. He has qualifications in electronics from one of the leading engineering universities in India as well as from New Zealand. This has been supplemented with ongoing product training within Harvey Norman. He also enjoys the challenge of operating within a rapidly changing technological environment.

“Our Technology Department sells the suite of Apple and Microsoft products

– phones, watches, computers, laptops, tablets, and more. We have everything Google and Amazon produce to make your home a smart home. And that’s just for starters.”

The Harvey Norman ethos of helping customers resonates with Gokul. “I take pride in finding solutions for each individual and building a loyal customer base. It won’t be long before I’ll recognise people in the street and

say hello. My team and I are here to help. Come and have a chat.”

The vibrancy and positive atmosphere of Harvey Norman keeps Gokul passionate about the business. The opportunity in the new Masterton store is the icing on the cake.

“It’s great to be here at Harvey Norman’s Masterton store.”

Introducing Proprietor Penny

“For me, it’s always been electrical,” says Penny Hickson, Proprietor of the Electrical Department in Masterton’s Harvey Norman store.

Penny has been working for the company for 13 years. She’s worked in the Lower Hutt, Gisborne, and Whakatane stores, and is committed to the Harvey Norman brand. Having been brought up in Lower Hutt and having mostly worked for Harvey Norman in the Lower Hutt store, moving over the hill to Masterton with her husband has been straightforward, Penny says.

She’s excited by the electrical o erings in her department. “Whiteware, cooking appliances, TVs, smaller appliances – they’re all fascinating. We have a big range of products and something for everyone whether you’re on a tight budget, building your dream kitchen, or renovating your house. We can match the right products to the customer’s needs and budget.”

The Harvey Norman culture suits Penny. “It’s a great atmosphere. It’s easy to work with everyone and it feels like a family. I enjoy my role and making Harvey Norman a great place to work for my team.” She has recruited twelve sta , almost all locals, to cover the wide range of o erings in the electrical department.

Describing herself as easy going and with a sense of humour, customer service underpins Penny’s skill set. Prior to her years with Harvey Norman, she had several other customer service-based roles including for the Study Link call centre. “Those skills of working with people are transferrable.”

Come and meet Penny Hickson and her team in the Electrical Department of Masterton’s new Harvey Norman.

With nearly eight years at Harvey Norman already under her belt - having worked in sales, as a linen manager, floor manager and now as a proprietorSian Hodge has relocated from Palmerston North to Masterton and is ready to go. Her energy is infectious.

Sian’s new role as Proprietor of the Bedding and Furniture Department in the new Masterton store is “the next step in my career and I’m ready. Everyone who works for Harvey Norman is passionate about what they do,” she says. “Harvey Norman gives us a career.”

“Being able to help people create the home of their dreams – for relaxing, working and sleeping - is an absolute privilege and a great opportunity,” Sian says.

Harvey Norman can work its magic for you from when you first walk through the door of your home, with entrance tables and mirrors. The store o ers chairs, stools, bu ets,

tables, couches, and a whole suite of products for kitchens, dining rooms, and lounges. And then there are the bedrooms.

“We sleep for about a third of our lives,” Sian says, “and so our bedrooms are important. Come and test our mattresses and be fitted for the right pillow. You can also check out the options for bases, headboards, bedside cabinets, and dressers.”

Masterton’s Bedding and Furniture Department has a team of six, ready to help customers create an entire story in their homes from the inside out. “We do outdoor furniture and BBQs as well as all our indoor ranges.” Many products available from the Bedding and Furniture Department are customisable and made in New Zealand.

“Pop in for a chat,” Sian says. “We’d love to support you in making your dreams for your home a reality.”

Greytown festival on the lookout for talent

Lucy Cooper

A new opportunity for musicians, singers, dancers, and street performers has opened this winter.

Wairarapa’s monthlong Festival of Christmas is calling on the region’s talent to complete the programme for this year’s Street Performers Stage.

The stage will host four hours of entertainment from well-known and emerging artists at Greytown Town Hall from 2pm on July 14. While many of the entertainers are locked in, opportunities remain to shine a spotlight on Wairarapa talent, festival events manager Rachael Fletcher said.

“We are really looking to

try to add to that, to really showcase some of the great talent in our region.”

The Street Performers Stage, which is sponsored by charitable agency the Nikau Foundation, is a new feature for the midwinter festival, which is now in its fourth year.

“It is another great string to the festival’s bowand complements the festival’s community focus,” Fletcher said.

“The festival really is about community. We have local businesses and organisations that are largely funding it. Nearly everything is done by locals. It really is proudly a Wairarapa event.”

There is no audition process or age limit on performers, and the festival organisers’ focus is on

showcasing a variety of entertainment.

“You could be someone who’s an emerging artist that really wants an opportunity to perform. You could be a school band. We are really open,” Fletcher said.

“We just want to have a great variety of different types of performance so it’s a really vibrant afternoon of entertainment.”

Fletcher advises interested performers to get in quick.

“Once [the programme’s] full, it’s full. We’d encourage people to get in touch as soon as possible to try and get a spot.” • Email enquiries can be made to festivalofchristmas@ gmail.com

In this nal feature of three about Masterton Dental’s advanced dentistry treatment options, we focus on implant bridges. Last month we shone a spotlight on implant dentures. The month before that, we covered dental implants.

Dr Kenny Kim and Dr Akash Kota, dentists and friends since they trained together at the University of Otago, are masters of dentistry treatments designed to improve your life.

“Many patients pick implant options to restore their speech and smile. They want something as close as possible to their natural teeth,” Dr Akash says. “And many want to be able to eat what they like as opposed to what they’re limited to by their teeth.”

Implant bridge treatment, also known as ‘All on X’, begins with several implants (usually four to six) being inserted into the jaw. A xed bridge is then tted onto the implants. Unlike implant dentures, implant bridges cannot be removed by the patient. They stay in the mouth 24/7 and do not cover the roof of the mouth.

“Implant bridges are the closest thing to real teeth,” Dr Kenny says. “They enhance your ability to bite and chew, they improve your smile and appearance, and they’re low maintenance.”

Following dentistry school, Kenny and Akash trained further in America and in Central America, focusing on implants. They are experts in the eld. At Masterton Dental and in their sister clinics in Geraldine, Kapiti, and Wellington, the dentists have invested in top-of-the-line technology to make their treatments easier, quicker, and more effective, without costing any more.

“Doing a proper job in the rst instance also means you’re less likely to need additional dentistry in the future,” Kenny says.

A variety of orthodontic and cosmetic dentistry is also available at Masterton Dental including braces and teeth straightening using invisible aligners. The Invisalign Smileview simulator at Masterton Dental can simulate your future smile to show you how you could look after teeth straightening. The dentists have spent an additional two years of part-time study focused on orthodontics, as well as training in Australia in teeth straightening with aligners. They’re passionate about how great teeth can help you look good and feel great.

“Advanced and cosmetic dentistry can be an affordable investment that will enhance your quality of life,” agree Dr Kenny Kim and Dr Akash Kota.

Greytown Town Hall will host the Street Performers Stage at this year’s Festival of Christmas.

PHOTO/MIKE HEYDON

Dr Kenny Kim at work at Masterton Dental

Dr Akash Kota at Masterton Dental

Things around COVID-19 are changing

Te Whatu Ora – Wairarapa (formerly Wairarapa DHB)

will no longer be providing

COVID-19 vaccinations and Care in the Community telehealth for those with COVID-19,from Friday, 30 June 2023.

Medical centres, pharmacies, Māori and Pasifika providers throughout the Wairarapa will continue to support the community.

Information and advice about COVID-19, including clinical advice about symptoms and non-clinical advice about testing locations can be found by calling the dedicated COVID-19 Healthline, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week:

• for free on 0800 358 5453

• on +64 9 358 5453 if you have an international SIM.

You can call your GP surgery for assistance during clinic open hours.

For any other health concerns, call the general Healthline number on 0800 611 116. You can call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Want to get a COVID-19 vaccination?

COVID-19 vaccines are FREE FOR EVERYONE aged 6 months and over. You can get these by:

• Popping in to your local pharmacy or booking online at Book My Vaccine https://app.bookmyvaccine.health.nz/

• or by contacting your medical centre who will direct you to your nearest vaccinating site.

COVID-19 positive and needing medical support?

If you register online as positive, your medical centre will be informed and a review of your needs undertaken if you are eligible. You will get a call from your GP or from Tū Ora Compass PHO.

• If you need assistance at any time, you need to contact your GP for over the phone assistance, assessment and ongoing medical support.

• To nd the your nearest pharmacy go to: https://www.healthpoint.co.nz/covid-19-vaccination/wairarapa/ or call the COVID-19 Healthline on 0800 358 5453

Eel.

PHOTO/ANNA BARNETT

Imagine this scene: the banks of the river are fringed with native forest. Tuna [eels] and piharau [lamprey] abound. Kōkopu are present by the thousand, and upokororo graylings appear in late summer in droves. Basketfuls of kōura are collected and thousands of inanga whitebait are steered into pens.

This was the Waipoua River in the 1870s, as remembered by Charles Bannister and recounted by environmentalist Bob Stidolph, in the Evening Post in 1930.

This scene was probably common everywhere in the

country, but it just doesn’t exist anymore –whether in our minds or reality.

We look at the Waipoua River and its surrounding streams today and can’t see how it was a few decades ago, not to mention 150 years ago. Nowadays there is very little native bush in the vicinity, and life in the river is sparse apart from a few introduced trout and native tuna. The native fish that Bannister depicted as so abundant are now on the nationally endangered list – or are literally extinct, like the grayling. The grayling was said to have been so prolific it was

once applied to gardens as a fertiliser by the wagonload!

Such tales highlight the phenomenon ecologists and conservationists have described as the “extinction of experience” - the loss of contact with our natural world as it used to be, or even as it is now. It’s not just contact with nature either: even simple awareness has gone the way of the

grayling. We are much the poorer for it, a growing body of evidence shows – in terms of our mental, physical and community health, lifestyle and recreational opportunities, and general well-being. This loss is also a narrowing of experience. In our drive to maximise economic growth, we have dramatically simplified the ecosystems we live in and have lost much of the rich natural diversity that once surrounded us.

Aotearoa’s nature, so recently prolific, now faces a biodiversity crisis. More than 4000 native species are threatened or

at risk of extinction. On top of all this, too, the impacts of climate change are bearing down on our wildlife and wild places. For all that a healthy economy is imperative, we urgently need to restore a better balance with nature, with Papatūānuku, and with the planetary systems we are so utterly dependent on. That is the essential message of Forest & Bird, Aotearoa’s largest group of conservation volunteers and advocates, now in its 100th year.

• The Wairarapa Midweek has partnered with conservation groups to put a spotlight on conservation efforts locally.

1 HOUR CLICK & COLLECT HOME DELIVERY OR 1 HOUR CLICK & COLLECT AVAILABLE FOR ONLINE ORDERS* *See online for details. ^In-store: to spend on STIHL accessories. Online: to spend on STIHL accessories online, discount applied at checkout. Offers apply to selected STIHL products and valid from 20 June 2023 - 31 August 2023 or while stocks last. Prices are recommended retail prices only. See in-store and online at participating retailers for details.

The way *Price includes tools, AP 300 Battery & AL 301 Charger

Chris Peterson Forest & Bird – Wairarapa

HE TĀKAI KŌRERO MAI I WHAKAORIORI MASTERTON MONTHLY WRAP

DON’T LET DOG REGO FEES CREEP UP AND BITE YOU

It’s time to register your furry friends

It’s dog registration time once again, and new registration fees are due 30 June.

We give you an extra month leeway, but miss the date of 31 July and you may face a 50 per cent penalty.

We know that paying any bills at the moment can be hard, but the Council has set registration fees to pay for the work that our animal services team do. Like many other everyday costs, these have increased.

Councillors have decided that 80 per cent of the cost should come from people who own dogs, and the rest from general rates.

You must register your dog at the address at which it lives most of the time. Providing intentionally incorrect registration information may result in a fine for breaching the Dog Control Act.

Registration fees can be found on the Council website: www.mstn.govt.nz

How to reduce the cost of registration

y Desex your dog - a neutered dog in town costs only $109 compared with an entire dog which is $188.

y For a one-o $25 fee, you can also apply to become a Responsible Dog Owner which will reduce your registration fee by 25 per cent.

BUT – Applications for RDO status must be made by 31 March to qualify for discount for the following year. Applications need only be made once for an address.

To be a responsible dog owner you will need to: y have paid registration fees on time for the previous two years

Do you have a lucky dog?

Pay your registration in full by 30 June and your dog will go into the draw to win one of three prize packs full of goodies for them and their families.

Dog registration payments must be made in full by 31 July to avoid penalties. Pay in full before 31 July and your dog will also go in the draw to win a refund of its fee.

There are a range of ways to pay, including online and weekly payments. For more information visit: www.mstn.govt.nz

To keep up-to-date and report issues, download Antenno from your Apple App Store or Google Play store.

How healthy is your home?

Winter’s here and cold, damp and mouldy houses can lead to serious health problems, like respiratory illness and cardiovascular disease.

What registration pays for

Registration fees are used to fund dog-related services, such as dealing with dog attacks, barking, straying, and other complaints.

The Dog Control Act states that money from registration fees must be spent on dog-related activities, not other Council activities.

Registration fees provide funds for:

You can assess your home for moisture, leaks, draughts, and more, with our home health assessment toolkit, available to borrow free from the Masterton District Library. The kit is also available from the Carterton and Greytown libraries. There are some inexpensive ways that can help make homes healthier and more comfortable. The toolkit can help you find out:

y how to keep your home warmer, drier and healthier

y which areas of your home use the most energy

y how to save on power bills (and as a bonus reduce your carbon footprint)

y the moisture level of your firewood

PIPIRI 2023 JUNE 2023

y useful tips and advice to improve the comfort of your home.

The toolkit contains:

y an infrared thermometer – to find thermal leaks due to poor insulation or ine ective seals

y a hygrometer – to measure air temperature and moisture levels

y a stopwatch – to measure your shower flow rate

y a power meter – to measure the electricity usage, the GHG emissions from electricity usage, and the running cost of plug-in appliances

y a wood moisture level meter.

The toolkit also contains a user guide for each tool and useful tips about where to find more information

y have your dog(s) desexed.

y keep your dog securely on your property with visitors able to access house without encountering the dog

y make sure your dog’s shelter complies with bylaw requirements

y microchip your dog

y confirm your dog hasn’t been the subject of a substantiated complaint or impounded in the previous two years.

y not have been given an infringement notice for any dogs owned by you in the previous two years. PAY NOW AND WIN!

y responding to reports of uncontrolled dogs

y receiving and caring for abandoned and impounded dogs

y monitoring and enforcing the dog control bylaws and policy

y implementing the Dog Control Act 1996

y promoting better care and control of dogs

y responding to unregistered and uncontrolled dogs

y providing information and education to local schools, communities and dog owners.

y administration of a dog registration database of more than 6,200 dogs

y nstallation, upkeep, and emptying of poo bins.

What we did in 2021/22

In the last financial year, Council sta responded to nearly 1569 service requests –an average of more than four a day, every day of the year. This included:

y 191 barking complaints

y 17 attacks on people

y 49 attacks on stock and domestic animals

y 54 cases of rushing at people

y 775 wandering, stray, roaming and lost

y 138 cases involving fouling, welfare, and general nuisance

y nearly 200 dogs returned to owners.

Wairarapa Councils launch combined rangatahi strategy

Masterton, Carterton and South Wairarapa District Councils have today launched Te Rautaki Rangatahi o Wairarapa: Wairarapa Youth Strategy. It is the first time all three councils have come together to develop a common vision for rangatahi across the Wairarapa.

The strategy sets out seven priorities that rangatahi in the Wairarapa region have identified and what councils can do to respond to, and support, their needs and aspirations.

In the Strategy, the Wairarapa Mayors agree their role is to ensure the viewpoints of all who call Wairarapa home are considered when making decisions on their behalf.

“We, and our elected colleagues, represent our communities in their entirety - a vital sector of which is made up of rangatahi, those aged 12 to 24.”

Te Rautaki Rangatahi o Wairarapa: Wairarapa Youth Strategy can be found on the South Wairarapa, Carterton, and Masterton District Councils’ websites.

Council Meetings

The meetings of the Council and its committees for the coming month are listed below.

Unless specified, all meetings will be held in the Kiwi Room at Waiata House, 27 Lincoln Road, Masterton. Members of the public are welcome to attend these meetings. The meetings will also be accessible to the public via the livestream on the Masterton District Council Facebook page. Agendas will be available on the Council website (www. mstn.govt.nz) and copies will be available for inspection at the main Council o ce, 161 Queen Street, and at the Library, 54 Queen Street, two working days prior to the meeting.

Opportunity for Public Comment

At the beginning of some meetings, a period is available for those who wish to speak or comment on any matter relevant to the meeting in question. Requests to speak at a meeting should be made to Harriet Kennedy, Governance Advisor, phone 370 6300 or email mdc@mstn.govt.nz at least one clear day before the meeting.

What’s On

Wednesday 28 June 3pm Council meeting

Friday 30 June

Dog registrations due

Monday 10 July

Te ara o ngā whetū o Matariki - Follow the stars of Matariki events begin Check Council website in early July for details of events (www.mstn.govt.nz).

Friday 14 July - Matariki public holiday

Sunday 16 July

Te ara o ngā whetū o Matariki - Follow the stars of Matariki events finish

Our purpose: is for older people / kaumātua to live a valued life in an inclusive society.

Our Vision: To be recognised as a leading contributor to the wellbeing of older persons / kaumātua in our Wairarapa community.

Our Mission: Helping, connecting and empowering older persons in Wairarapa.

The benefits of taking a walk

of the leaders in a very competitive industry.

Midweek Musings

Tim Nelson

Our Values: The work of Age Concern Wairarapa is based on these values, with special reference to older people, koroua and kuia Being responsive, Respecting all, Caring, Being committed to wellbeing.

Our Guiding Principles: are that our services are accessible, appropriate and affordable, inclusive, culturally appropriate and equally available to all.

Throughout the past two months I have been away from New Zealand I have continued to do daily posts for this column/ email newsletter.

This means I’m always on the lookout for positive things to write about. One way of doing this is by doing what people have done for thousands of years to inspire creativity, this being to take a walk.

Elder abuse and neglect is a single or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person. Even though we are all ageing, ageism is a common form of prejudice and discrimination. Ageist attitudes undermine the voices of older people being listened to. It often starts in our families where older people’s opinions are laughed at and joking about “getting old” tips off the tongue. Older people become invisible and can find themselves being treated differently simply because of their age. When it comes to making choices, older people’s views get written off and choices are overruled. Elder abuse and neglect are predicated by ageist attitudes when older people’s needs are disregarded, their rights are not upheld, and they are exploited.

Include older people in decision-making.

Everyone should feel safe and be free from harm and coercion from those they trust. Sadly, this is not always the case; New Zealanders of all ages can find themselves experiencing abuse in one or more of its many forms. For older people it can be abuse from those they know well, such as relatives or friends who may also provide support, advice, care, or companionship. Even when this has been formalized through setting up ‘enduring powers of attorney’ or loan agreements, it can be a trusted relative who excludes older persons from decisions about their own welfare or property. Older people can be victims of family disputes, stopping them seeing grandchildren or having visits from someone they love.

The benefits of walking are varied: improving health; inspiring creativity; exposure to Vitamin D. For me, the morning walk I took today has provided me with the ideas I will write about for the next three days.

I hope those who read them will be inspired by what I write and are encouraged to go out and do walking themselves. It’s up to you I don’t usually look at the real estate section of the newspaper, but I flicked

through it quickly as I was reading an online newspaper and came across a profile of Linh Yee, a very successful real estate agent from Auckland.

Yee’s story is quite inspirational. She arrived in New Zealand as a refugee from Vietnam as a child. When she was 13 years old she was thrown out of home and ended up living on the streets and couch surfing with people she knew. This went on for quite some time, during which she also worked in several part-time jobs.

Eventually, after being inspired by the book

Rich Dad, Poor Dad, Yee decided if things were going to get better then it was going to be up to her. From that point onwards through sheer hard work, determination and being guided by goals, Yee did what it took to be where she is today – one

Yee had nothing really going for her in terms of predetermined advantages, with the exception of the self awareness to know no one was going to come and rescue her; if she wanted success and fulfilment it was going to be up to her.

Life can be incredibly unfair. However, by its very nature the fact it is is unfair means things aren’t going to get any easier if we sit around blaming others and waiting for things to come right.

A far better option is to understand that things really are up to us, then take the steps to start helping ourselves. If Yee can do it, then you can too!

Ask the questions

In his latest book, Excellent Advice For Living, author Kevin Kelly shares a piece of advice we have all heard countless times, but are often reluctant to act on, for fear of looking silly, this being to ask those “stupid” questions.

Continued on page 30

TRAVELLING THROUGH TIME

A parade of styles from 1850 to today

Tickets $45 each include a glass of wine and nibbles with a cash bar and additional refreshments o ered plus a Silent Auction. Fundraising for Cobblestones Museum Two Sheds Project.

Book now at Cobblestones or Eventfinda

Proudly sponsored by

Kieran McAnulty here, your local MP.

It’s been a busy few months out and about across the electorate, beyond and in Parliament.

I hold regular constituent clinics to give you an opportunity to meet with me, and my electorate team is also available if you need any help.

If you’d like to arrange a meeting or a visit to discuss something important to you, please get in touch - 06 377 7186.

Authorised by Kieran McAnulty, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

Lifestyle

Talking of walking ...

Kelly’s belief is that if we don’t know the answer [even if we think we should] then, chances are, others aren’t going to know the answer either; perhaps they weren’t paying attention either, or maybe the explanation given wasn’t clear to them, just as it wasn’t for us.

Regardless, we should be prepared to ask the questions simply because we don’t know the answer. The added benefit will be that we’re doing others in the same boat a favour, and they’ll appreciate us putting our necks out.

How to fix a wobble

More excellent advice and knowledge shared from leadership expert Frances Frei this time on how to fix a ‘wobble’, something that isn’t quite working in your life.

Frei’s advice is quite simple, if we are to correct or fix something, we need to want to do so. If we’re doing it because someone is telling us to, then there may be an immediate correction, but, chances are, the correction will be short lived and the “wobble” will return.

Part of the fix will be convincing ourselves there is value in the correction. If we can see there is a positive purpose and

benefit then, with advice and guidance, combined with our own effort, we will get better.

Judgement of someone

There have been countless times in my life in which I have judged someone before I have met them.

More often than not this judgement is based on the opinion of another person, who has had either a positive or negative experience with whoever has been judged.

There have been many times in which I have then met the person and found the experience I have is completely different to what I expected. This is more common when expecting a negative interaction but having a positive one.

I listened to a podcast about an example of this with an experience shared by Frances Frei, a leadership expert.

She had been asked to work with Uber when the company was going through an especially tough time a few years ago.

Before meeting the owner she had heard negative things, mainly through the news media. However, when Frei met him she liked him almost straight away. This led to a positive relationship, which then led to a positive change in the company.

WINTER WARMERS

It’s so easy to judge someone without having any real idea of what they’re like. This can also be the case when someone has a predetermined picture of us.

The best thing we can do is to be both proved wrong and prove wrong through an actual real face to face interaction.

Do incredible things

I have just seen actor Kate Winslet do something quite amazing. She was on The Graham Norton Show as a guest. In the show, host Norton introduces a clip showing Winslet with her head under water as another person times her while she is holding her breath.

When she raises her head she is told she has been under for 7 minutes and 50 seconds. An incredible achievement.

Cutting back to the show Winslet shares how she has had four children and is now in her 40s; well past where she thought she would be doing something so physically and mentally demanding. With the right coaching and effort, it turns out she could.

While breath holding may not be your thing, there will be something that if you chose to put in the effort to get better at

amazing thing.

It could be anything, from running long distances to sculpting from clay. We are all capable of doing something incredible, regardless of what our situation is.

We simply need to choose what we want to do, develop a plan, then implement it. When you do, others will think you’re amazing, because you will be.

Don’t put up with it

The air-conditioner in our hotel wasn’t working this evening. Where we are staying is incredibly hot so it was very uncomfortable.

When we arrived back it was quite late, so we almost left it, thinking we would get it sorted in the morning and would put up with the heat for the evening. However, despite the hassle or going down to reception and getting the evening staff to come up to get it fixed, I went down to do so.

Thirty minutes later we

an air-conditioner that works. We will now have a comfortable night of sleep, as opposed to a long night of no sleep.

Too often we put up with things when we shouldn’t, often because saying something makes us uncomfortable, or we just can’t be bothered making the effort. When we do do something the problem will invariably be addressed, just as it should be. We are entitled to certain things, be it a working air-conditioner or a service we have paid for.

If it hasn’t been provided as promised, we have the right to ask for the problem to be rectified.

• Tim Nelson is principal of Lakeview School and author of the book Small Steps for a happy and purposeful life. He endeavours to learn something new every day by reading books, listening to podcasts, and engaging with a wide range of other content.

BAY ROAD

100% Merino Crew, Polo, Turtleneck (machine washable)

Possum/ Merino Knitwear, Socks, Scarves, Beanies etc

Council News June

We opened a pound!

Featherston Community Board member John Dennison and a couple of his canine companions check out the Council pound near Featherston. A long-awaited project, the new pound replaces an old one in Featherston, which no longer met animal welfare standards and had to move.

Our new pound is quite innovative, with off-thegrid features such as solar panels, a septic system that releases treated water to land, a rainwater tank, higher security and controlled temperature. It’ll be super easy to clean,

Stop! We need your views

Speed limits, Easter trading, dog control policies, and dangerous and insanitary buildings. We have several topics currently under consultation.

NOTICE OF MEETINGS

has individual exercise runs and great disease control measures. All designed by our staff at a cost-effective price.

Animal control services are mostly funded from dog registration fees.

Hooray for Holidays!

School holidays are looming. Have you heard about our upcoming special events at our libraries? There’s a variety of fun activities for kids of all ages, including:

• Moria Wairama’s Matariki stories at Featherston and Greytown on Friday, 7 July.

• Chris Lam Sam’s Carnival Street Band, at Featherston’s ANZAC Hall on Wednesday, 5 July, 10.30 am

• Greytown Library’s Midwinter late night on Friday, 21 July

• The WLS StoryWalk® in Martinborough will feature a new book, Daniel’s Matariki Feast

• eco-friendly lip balms, crochet facecloths and soy candles at Divine River’s Youth Creativity & Connection Workshops.

• Pop-up crafts at all branches throughout the holidays. Make a musical instrument with your child, build with bricks, or make a star or a stargazing night vision flashlight.

For more details, go to www.wls.org.nz

The Dangerous and Insanitary Buildings Policy and Local Easter Sunday Shop Trading Policy were last reviewed in 2017 and are now due for review. Consultation on both policies closes on 10 July. You can view the changes on our website and give feedback online, via email, post, an oral submission or by dropping it into our Council offices.

We are also reviewing our Control of Dogs Policy and Bylaw. At this stage, we are interested in your thoughts on camping areas where dogs may be permitted. More information will be provided over the coming months.

Consultation on an interim speed

Spot the water meter!

Somewhere in amongst this prolific greenery is a blue toby and, with it, a property’s water meter. June is the month for our annual big water meter read. Over 4,500 household and business water meters are read by volunteers from community or sports groups raising funds. You may see members of the Greytown Lions, or the Martinborough and Featherston Rugby Clubs out on the streets looking for your meter. We’re asking people this month to make their jobs easier by checking that their meters are easily visible. And if you’re one of the rare cases that has a meter

management plan kicks off this Friday and closes on 23 July 5pm. To protect some of our most vulnerable road users, we are required to lower speeds around schools and marae next year. We are also keen to hear from you whether there are other roads where speed limits may need to change. We have drafted a list of high priority roads for your consideration.

A consultation document and feedback form are available on our website (click the consultations link on the home page) or in printed form from our libraries.

Meeting agendas are available for inspection at least two days before the meeting at the district libraries, Council offices and at www.swdc.govt.nz. Public participation is welcome. If you wish to speak during the public participation session at any of the below meetings, please phone 06 306 9611 at least 24 hours prior to the meeting or email enquiries@swdc.govt.nz. Masks are available for those in attendance. If you have cold and flu symptoms, please stay at home. The meetings will be livestreamed on YouTube Channel, where possible.

JULY MEETINGS & FORUMS

FEATHERSTON COMMUNITY BOARD FORUM

Wednesday 12 July 2023 at 7.00pm

Featherston Community Centre, Wakefield Street, Featherston

MĀORI STANDING COMMITTEE

Tuesday, 18 July 2023 at 6.00pm

Supper Room, Waihinga Centre, Texas Street, Martinborough

HEARINGS COMMITTEE

Wednesday 19 July 2023 at 9.00am

Supper Room, Waihinga Centre, Texas Street, Martinborough

INFRASTRUCTURE & COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE

Tuesday, 25 July 2023 at 10:00am

Supper Room, Waihinga Centre, Texas Street, Martinborough

GREYTOWN COMMUNITY BOARD

on private property rather than the street, please make sure your property is dog-safe for the meter reader. For more information on water meters, and where to find your toby, check out our water meter page at www.swdc.govt.nz/ water-meters/

Wednesday, 26 July 2023 at 7.00pm

WBS Room, Greytown Town Centre.

MARTINBOROUGH COMMUNITY BOARD

Thursday, 27 July at 7.00pm

Supper Room, Waihinga Centre, Texas Street, Martinborough

Paul Gardner

INTERIM CHIEF

EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Fears of forestry exodus

to comment for fear that doing so would worsen their businesses’ situation.

advising business owners to “walk now” to avoid losing everything, he said.

New Zealand’s forestry contractors are approaching breaking point, and some Wairarapa businesses are already in liquidation – with many more at risk of losing their livelihoods, according to industry insiders.

Operators are leaving the industry as the price for an A-grade log has dived as low as $95 per cubic metre, which often isn’t enough to cover their operating costs, Forest 360 director Marcus Musson said.

More than one Wairarapa contractor has called it quits in the past year, Musson said.

Several forestry industry members were contacted by the TimesAge but were unwilling

Spokesman for the Forest Industry Contractors Association

[FICA] Ross Davis, said contractors in Gisborne have been losing their homes when their businesses fail because they’ve used them as equity, and warned that this could happen in Wairarapa too.

“They’ll lose everything,” Davis said.

“Quite often to borrow money, they’ve put their house into the pot. The finance companies have been really good, but they’re over it now. They can’t see any light at the end of the tunnel for a lot of these guys, so they’re winding them up, and they’ll take everything.”

Some accountants are

The likelihood of contractors losing their homes will depend on how long they have owned their businesses, Davis said – those who have more equity in their equipment can hold on for longer.

The pressure felt by contractors has been exacerbated by Cyclone Gabrielle, Davis said, but was already high due to a tough three years that featured covid-19, fuel hikes, high inflation resulting in significant interest rate rises, and continuous wet weather.

A survey of FICA’s members showed a widespread reduction in production over the past year, Davis said, with 57 per cent of

respondents indicating their production had been reduced by 20 per cent or more, while 16 per cent were down more than 30 per cent.

“When asked if they could survive at an 80 per cent production level for a year, only 26 per cent of respondents indicated that they could.”

The present forestry system is unsustainable for contractors, Davis said: “What happens at the moment is that the price climbs up, everyone goes harvesting, the opportunity of a high price tends to put too much wood on the market, and the next minute the wood price is coming down again.” When the price falls, contractors will be out of work.

Musson echoed Davis’ sentiment that the industry model needs to change, and suggested more sawmills being set up in New Zealand is part of the solution. While Davis agreed this would be desirable, he is sceptical it will ever happen: “The reality is that the big [internationally owned] forestry owners do not want to commit to longterm supply contracts to the mills.”

Musson said Wairarapa is lucky to have sawmill Kiwi Lumber, which can take both pruned and unpruned logs, keeping some production going. He said companies like his are doing all they can to help contractors, including vouching to finance companies that there is long-term work.

The National Party is reportedly withdrawing its support for pricing agricultural emissions, declaring the plan the government is working on with farming organisations “dead”. He Waka Eke Noa – which includes Dairy NZ, Federated Farmers, and Beef and Lamb – was set up in 2019 to work with the government to develop a pricing scheme as an alternative to farms being entered into the Emissions Trading Scheme [ETS].

After consulting with He Waka Eke Noa, the Government proposed introducing a farmlevel, split-gas levy for pricing agricultural emissions. But now, National agriculture spokesman

bad faith to the sector” in the way it’s run the negotiation process. The Times-Age canvassed Wairarapa’s electoral candidates about the future of the plan.

Wairarapa MP Kieran McAnulty said the Labour Party’s position on pricing agricultural emissions is unchanged, “unlike other parties”.

McAnulty said the preference of a majority of farmers is to have a farm-level pricing system rather than enter the ETS, and the Government is committed to work with them to establish this.

“That work hasn’t stopped.

“If a system for pricing emissions cannot be agreed before January 1, 2025, then farming will enter the ETS. We want to avoid this.

to ever-strengthening market signals on climate from abroad.”

National Party candidate Mike Butterick, meanwhile, argued the Labour Government has “caused He Waka Eke Noa to fail by blowing up the consensus approach the primary sector had worked with the Government in good faith on”.

He said Labour’s plan would see the agricultural sector “decimated”, with up to 29 per cent of sheep and beef farms and close to six per cent of dairy farmers having to exit the industry.

“That was never going to be acceptable for anyone and was always going to be rejected.”

Butterick said National has “always said we support pricing of agricultural

engine” of Wairarapa and National will collaborate with them to find a solution that works.

Green Party candidate Celia Wade-Brown said National is “inventing mischievous stories for short-term political gain”.

“There is a clear expectation from the public that farmers pay for their emissions. I expect the Government, and [Green Party]

Climate Change Minister James Shaw will continue working with stakeholders to get a pricing system in place for agriculture emissions.”

Wade-Brown said when Cabinet put forward its preferred option for He Waka Eke Noa last year, Shaw set out an alternative approach that would have put an overall cap on farming emissions and allowed farmers to trade below that cap.

“Cabinet decided to go with its preferred option.”

Wade-Brown’s bottom-line: “We need to find a way to do that that’s fair and will drive the emissions reduction we need.”

While these frosty mornings will be dropping our soil temp, we’re all appreciating some sunshine that comes with them! Calving is looming. For those cows in their last month before calving, their current body condition is their calving condition. Now is the last chance to target any later calving cows that are lighter.

It’s also an opportune time to tick items off your pre-calving list:

• Plan with your team what needs doing and how you can ensure calving runs smoothly

• Plan and prepare calf pens with new bedding and ensure fresh water is available

• Organise new teats for calfterias, iodine, electrolytes, disinfectant, tags etc

• Plan your rst grazing round from calving: Which paddocks will you calve in, which will be used for the colostrum mob?

• Ensure your calving supplies are fully stocked: Mg and Ca, metabolic bags, etc and your staff are trained in using them RSVP if you would like to attend the Wairarapa Calving Smart event on 5 July. CalvingSmart – Wairarapa – DairyNZ

The DairyNZ Spring Survival Guide can be ordered at Spring Survival Guide – DairyNZ

Green Party candidate Celia Wade-Brown.Wairarapa National Party candidate Mike Butterick. Wairarapa MP Kieran McAnulty. PHOTOS/SUPPLIED

Grace Prior grace.prior@age.co.nz

Grace Prior grace.prior@age.co.nz

Jumbo crossword

Sudoku

ACROSS: 1 Regular, 4 At the ready, 9 Airfare, 13 Sore, 14 Swerve, 15 Ripped, 16 Delayed, 19 Shimmering, 20 Contrary, 21 Steer, 24 Quorum, 25 Serene, 27 Accessory, 32 Disagree, 33 Acorns, 34 Plaster, 38 Terminal, 39 Athens, 40 Snow, 41 Break, 42 Taken, 45 Rattle the sabre, 52 Embed, 55 Space, 56 Anti, 57 Forage, 58 Coaching, 61 Waylaid, 62 Images, 63 Platinum, 66 Hierarchy, 68 Fiscal, 69 Dances, 73 Bunch, 74 Glaucoma, 76 Complexity, 81 Accused, 82 Summit, 83 Mosaic, 84 Menu, 85 Memento, 86 Applicants, 87 Stretch.

Fill

All puzzles © The Puzzle Company www.thepuzzlecompany.co.nz

DOWN: 1 Rusts, 2 Garrison, 3 Rowers, 4 Apron, 5 Tier, 6 Earache, 7 Expand, 8 Drear, 10 Idea, 11 Flatter, 12 Reefer, 17 Ammunition, 18 Greed, 22 Pedestal, 23 Psalm, 24 Quartet, 26 Earn, 28 Canasta, 29 Bazaar, 30 Mousse, 31 Menace, 33 Adept, 35 Scrum, 36 Trek, 37 Poor, 43 Appeal, 44 Excel, 46 Acne, 47 Triumph, 48 Effigy, 49 Herbs, 50 Signpost, 51 Erotic, 52 Encouraged, 53 Brie, 54 Digress, 59 Diary, 60 Saga, 64 Trill, 65 Accident, 67 Include, 68 Frantic, 70 Quiche, 71 Normal, 72 Splits, 75 Usurp, 77 Oasis, 78 Youth, 79 Next, 80 Omen.

Insert the missing letters to complete ten words — five across the grid and five down. More than one solution may be possible.

THURSDAY, JUNE 22

Alcoholics Anonymous: Featherston Community Centre, 7.30-8.30pm. Call

0800 229 6757.

Belly Dance for Beginners: Kiwi Hall, Featherston, 6.30-7.30pm. Call

Antonia Blincoe [021] 105-7649.

Carrington Bowling Club: 57 High Street, Carterton,1pm for 1.30pm start. Call Pauline Hodgson [027]

406-672.

Carterton Community Choir: 7.159pm, at Carterton School, Holloway St. Call [022] 373-4299.

Carterton District Historical Society: 142 High St North, Carterton, open 2-4pm or by appointment. Call Vivienne 379-5564.

Danzability Class: 11am-noon, at Studio 73, Greytown. Contact physio. rachel.horwell@gmail.com or [022]

077-2654.

Digital Seniors Wairarapa: Call

0800 373 646 for an appointment.

Martinborough: St Andrew’s Church, 9.30-11am; Featherston: Featherston Community Centre, 1.30-3.30pm.

Fareham Creative Space: Also Fri/ Tues, open studio, 10am-3pm, 80 Underhill Rd, Featherston. Email: registrations@farehamcreativespace.

nz Featherston Menz Shed: 61

Fitzherbert St, open from 6.30pm.

Food Market: Food trucks, 4.30-7pm outside the Masterton Town Hall, rain or shine.

GirlGuidingNZ: Carterton Pippins, 5-7 years, 4.15-5.30pm. Carterton

Brownies, 7-9½ years, 6-7.30pm. Call Sharon [021] 033-0550.

Justice of the Peace: Masterton CAB

9.30am-12.30pm.

KeepFit!: 10.30am, Senior Citizens Hall, Cole St, Masterton. Call Age

Concern [06] 377-0066.

Masterton Art Club: 10am-2pm, tutored classes available, also print on Fridays, at 12 Victoria St. Call Sue 377-7019 or Elissa [0274] 706-528.

Masterton Petanque Club: 2pm, in Queen Elizabeth Park. Call Myrna Lane 377-3064.

Masterton Toy Library: 10am-1pm, 365 Queen St.

Narcotics Anonymous 7.30-8.30pm, at St Matthew’s Church, Church St, Masterton.

Parkinson’s Exercise Class: 1.30pm, at the Wairarapa Boxing Academy, Dixon St. Call Roslyn [027] 264-8623.

Patient Activity Programme: At Hospice Wairarapa, 59 Renall St, Masterton, 10am-1pm. Call Kirsten 399 1050.

Red Star Table Tennis Club: 5-7pm at Red Star Sports Association 10 Herbert St, Masterton. Call Peter [027] 566-4664 or Brian 377-4066.

Ruamahanga Club: Cards, 500, 1-4pm, at Wairarapa Services Club, Essex St, Masterton.

ScoutsNZ: Carterton Scouts 11-14 years 6.30-8.30pm, Rangatahi Hub [behind Carterton Events Centre]. Call Sylvia [027] 249-3395.

Social Learners Bridge: 1-3.30pm, Featherston Community Centre. Call Barbara [06] 304-9208.

Steady As You Go Falls Prevention and Balance Class, 9.30am, Senior Citizens’ Hall, Cole St, Masterton. Call Age Concern [06] 377-0066.

Thursday Morning Bikers: Meet at the fountain at the Queen Elizabeth Park entrance, 9.30am. Contact David [021] 246-0295.

Wairarapa Fern and Thistle Pipe Band: Weekly practice, Masterton Brass Bandrooms, Park Ave, Masterton. Email fernandthistle21@ gmail.com

Wairarapa Model Aero Club: 9amnoon, at the Masterton Aerodrome. Whakaoriori Shufflers: Line dancing, Red Star clubrooms, Herbert St, Masterton, intermediate, 1-2.30pm. Call 377-5518 or 377-1135.

FRIDAY, JUNE 23

Aratoi: Have the Most Fun You

Can Before They Make You Stop:

A Retrospective of Carol Anne Bauer to July 9; Our Moon: Then, Now & Beyond to July 16; Rebecca

Steedman: Time Beds to Sep 17; Light and Space: Sculptures from the collection to Nov 26; Masterton Museum: A Cabinet of Curiosities to July 2023.

Carterton Craft Market: Mon-Sat: 9am-4pm, Sun: 10am-3pm, 25 High St North, Carterton. Call Desley [027]

787-8558.

Carterton Senior Citizens: 12.303.30pm, play cards, Rummikub and Scrabble, at the old courthouse next to the library.

Cloth Collective Sewing Workshop: 10am-2pm, Kiwi Hall Supper Room. Call Sara Uruski [0274] 474-959. Dance Fit: At Carrington Park, Carterton, at 6-7pm. Text dance groove to [022] 321-2643.

Free Community Fit Club: 6am and 11am, Carrington Park, Carterton. All ages, all fitness levels. Call Di [027] 498-7261.

Greytown Music and Movement: For pre-schoolers, 10am, at St Luke’s Hall, Main St. Contact email admin@ stlukesgreytown.co.nz Justice of the Peace: Carterton library noon-2pm; Masterton District Court 11am-1pm; Eketahuna Library

1.30-4.30pm.

Kids Song & Story 9.30-10.30am, during school terms for preschool children and their caregivers, Epiphany Church hall, High St, Masterton. Pam Thomas 378-6740.

Masterton Croquet Club: Golf

Croquet 9.15am behind the Hosking Garden in the park. Call Russell Ward 377-4401.

Masterton Masters Swimming Club: Club night 5.30-6.30pm, Trust House Recreation Centre back pool. Call Stu [027] 295-4189 or Lucy [021] 0204-4144.

Needlework & Craft Drop-in: 10am-noon, Featherston Community Centre. Call May [06] 308-6912 or Virginia [06] 308-8392.

Wairarapa Kids Choir: Choral singing for children aged seven years up, 3.50-4.50pm, Courthouse, Holloway St, Carterton, during school terms. Call Jill [027] 347-5891.

Wairarapa Stop Smoking Service: Quit Clinic at Whaiora 9am-noon. Free support available across Wairarapa. Call Whaiora 0800 494 246. Walk and Talk: Meet outside Dish Cafe, First St, Masterton, 9.30am.

SATURDAY, JUNE 24

Carrington Bowling Club: 57 High St, Carterton, behind clock tower. Coaching available. Call Pauline [027] 406-6728.

Cobblestones Early Settlers Village: Open 10am-3pm seven days.

History comes alive with six heritage buildings, carts and carriages, set in two acres of beautiful gardens, bring a picnic to enjoy.

Featherston Heritage Museum: Behind the Featherston Library and Information Centre. Sat/Sun 10am2pm, other times by arrangement. Call Elsa [021] 263-9403.

Featherston Town Market:

Organised by the Featherston Menzshed, at the town square [59 Fitzherbert St], Featherston.

Featherston Weekly Market: 8am2pm, 33 Fitzherbert St.

Greytown Menz Shed: 9am-noon. Call Paul Dodge [021] 0262-6595.

Justice of the Peace: Featherston Library 11am-1pm.

Justice of the Peace: Service centre available at Masterton Library, 10am-noon.

Lions Book Sale 9am-1pm, next to Wairarapa Farmers Market, Solway Showgrounds, Judds Rd, Masterton, under the grandstand.

Martinborough Book and Bric-

a-Brac Sale: First Church, Weld St, 1.30-5pm. Donations welcome.

Martinborough Men’s Shed Old Courthouse, 20 Cork St, 9am-noon. Call John [021] 314-2485.

Martinborough Museum: Open Sat/ Sun at No 7 The Square, 10.30am-

2.30pm. Donation/koha appreciated.

Masterton Croquet Club: Association Croquet 9.15am and 12.45pm behind Hosking Garden in the park. Call Carl Redvers 378-7109.

Parkrun: Weekly 5km run/walk, 8am start, at the Woodside end of the Greytown rail trail. Info: parkrun. co.nz/greytownwoodsidetrail Saturday in the Park: Food trucks by the Skate Park, QE Park 10am-2pm, rain or shine.

Tinui Craft Corner and Museum: Open Sat/Sun 10am-4pm. Call Lesley Hodgins [06] 372-6433. Toy Library: Masterton: 10am-1pm, 365 Queen St. Featherston: 14 Wakefield St, 10am-noon.

Wairarapa Cancer Society

Supportive Care Services: Free services for anyone needing support after a cancer diagnosis. Call (06) 378-8039.

Wairarapa Embroiderers Guild: At the Ranfurly Club Rooms, Chapel St, Masterton. Email Wairarapaembroiderers@gmail.com

Wairarapa Farmers’ Market: 9am1pm, Solway Showgrounds, Judds Rd, Masterton, under the grandstand and nearby redwood tree.

Wairarapa Genealogy Branch: Family History Research Rooms, 5 Church St, Masterton, 10am-noon.

Women’s Self Defence: With Dion, 9am, band rotunda, Queen Elizabeth Park. Call [020] 4124-4098.

SUNDAY, JUNE 25

Carterton Farmers Market: Memorial Square, 9am-12.30pm. Call [027] 663-9011.’

Featherston Menz Shed: 61

Fitzherbert St, open from 1pm.

Masterton Marauders Wargaming Club: At the Masterton Croquet Club, 1-5pm. Call Vince Cholewa [027] 344-1073.

Masterton Park Bowling Club: Queen Elizabeth Park, bowls roll up

at 1pm, names in by 12.45pm. Call 377-5458. Masterton Petanque Club: Club day 2pm, in Queen Elizabeth Park. Call Myrna Lane 377-3064. Masterton Toy Library: 10am-1pm, 365 Queen St.

Narcotics Anonymous: Featherston Community Centre, 7-9pm. Call 0800 628 632.

Rotary Sunday Market: 7-11.30am, Essex St car park. Contact thehodsons@xtra.co.nz

South Wairarapa Pipe Band: Practice at St John’s church hall, Featherston, 4-6pm. To confirm time please call [027] 628-5889 or [027] 453-0182.

Wairarapa Country Music Club: Senior Citizens Hall, Cole St, Masterton, at 1.30pm. Call Pam 377-5141. Wairarapa Model Aero Club: 9amnoon, at the Masterton Aerodrome.

MONDAY, JUNE 26

Art for Everyone: Featherston Community Centre, 7-9pm. Call Sandie [021] 157-4909.

Carterton Alcoholics Anonymous

8pm, Salvation Army Community Rooms, 210 High St. Call Bob [021] 042-2947 or Martin [06] 372-7764.

Carterton Community Toy Library: Events Centre, Holloway St, Mon-Sat during CDC Library hours. Carterton Food Bank: 10-11am Mon-Fri at Haumanu House. Call 379-4092. Carterton Scottish Dance Club 7.30pm, at Carterton School Hall, Holloway St. No partner required. Call Elaine 377-0322.

CCS Disability Action Wairarapa Office: 36 Bannister St, Masterton, 10am-1pm Mon-Fri. Call 378-2426 or 0800 227-2255.

Citizens Advice Bureau: Free and confidential advice, Mon-Fri 9am4pm, 43 Perry St, Masterton. Call 377-0078 or 0800 367-222. Clareville Indoor Bowls: 7pm at Tom Bubb Lounge, A&P complex. Call Colleen 379-8399.

Creative Hands Programme: At Hospice Wairarapa, 59 Renall St, Masterton, 10am-noon. Call Kirsten 399-1050.

East Indoor Bowling Club: 7pm. Call

Julie 377-5497 or George 378-9266. Epilepsy Support Group: 11am at the Salvation Army office, 210 High St South, Carterton. Call 0800 20 21 22. Featherston Music Club: 7-9pm. Call Shaun O’Brien [027] 672-6249. Free Community Fit Club: 6am and 11am, Carrington Park, Carterton. Call Di [027] 498-7261.

GirlGuidingNZ: Masterton Rangers,

12½-18 years, 6.30-8pm. South Wairarapa Guides [Greytown], 9-12½ years, 6-8pm. Call Sharon [021] 033-0550.

Hospice Wairarapa Support

Services: Free of charge for anyone dealing with a terminal illness. Call [06] 378-8888.

Indoor Bowls: 1.30pm, Club Carterton, Broadway, Carterton. Call [027] 645-0905. Justice of the Peace: Masterton CAB 9.30am-12.30pm.

Keep Fit!: 9.30am, Senior Citizens’ Hall, Cole St, Masterton. Call Age Concern [06] 377-0066.

Line Dancing: 10.30am, Senior Citizens’ Hall, Cole St Masterton. Call Age Concern [06] 377-0066.

Literacy Aotearoa: Free computing and digital device classes for adults. Call 377-4214.

Mah-jong: 1-4pm, Featherston Community Centre. Call Pat Hamilton [06] 308-9729.

Masterton District Brass Band: Rehearsals at 7pm, in the Band Room, Park Ave, Masterton. Call [022] 574-0742.

Play Gym: St James Church Hall 116 High St, Masterton, 9.30-11am, for 0-3-year-olds.

Red Star Table Tennis Club: 6-8pm at Red Star Sports Association 10 Herbert St, Masterton. Call Peter [027] 566-4664 or Brian 377-4066.

ScoutsNZ: Carterton Keas 5-8 years, 4.30-5.30pm, Carterton Cubs 8-11 years 6-7.30pm, Rangatahi Hub [behind Carterton Events Centre]. Call Sylvia [027] 249-3395.

Senior Citizens Club: Cards 1-4pm, Featherston Community Centre. Call Val [06] 308-9293.

Steady As You Go: Falls Prevention and Balance Class, Featherston: 9.30am, A/G Church. Masterton: 1.30pm, Senior Citizens’ Hall, Cole St. Call Age Concern [06] 377-0066.

The Dance Shed: 450A Belvedere Rd, Carterton. Beginners Linedance Class: 6-7pm. Linedance Intermediate Class: 7.30-8.30pm. Call Wendy [027] 319-9814.

Troubadour Music Group: 6-8pm, Wairarapa Community Centre, 41 Perry St, Masterton. Contact Stefan [027] 226-6019.

Wairarapa Services Club: Cards, 500, 1.30pm, at the club, Essex St, Masterton.

Wairarapa Stop Smoking Service: Call a Quit Coach based at Whaiora 0800 494 246.

TUESDAY, JUNE 27

Caregivers Programme: Caring for your loved one who is unwell, at Hospice Wairarapa, 59 Renall St, Masterton. Call Kirsten 399-1050. Carrington Bowling Club: 57 High St, Carterton, behind clock tower. Coaching available. Call Pauline [027] 406-6728.

Carterton District Historical Society: 142 High St North, Carterton, open 2-4pm or by appointment. Call Vivienne 379-5564. Central Indoor Bowls Club: 7.30pm, Hogg Crescent hall. Call Mathew or Graeme 378-7554. Chair Exercise: Gentle chair exercises, 2-2.45pm, at St John’s Hall, Greytown.

Clareville Badminton Club: Main Stadium at Clareville, 7.30pm -9pm. Call Steve [027] 333-3975.

Dance Fitness: 6.30-7.30pm, at Fareham House Hall Featherston. Call Justine [0204] 105-2830.

Digital Seniors Wairarapa: Call 0800 373 646 for an appointment. Carterton: 3 Mile, 66 High St, 9.30-11.30am; Greytown: Greytown Library, 1.30-3.30pm. Featherston Amateur Wrestling Club: During school terms. Classes are weight and skill dependent; Beginners, 5-9 years, 5.30-6.15pm; 10 years+ [including adults] 6.157.30pm. Featherston Menz Shed: 61 Fitzherbert St, open from 10am. Featherston Wahine Singers: 7-8.30pm, Featherston Community Centre. Call Susan [021] 246-4884. Free Community Fit Club: 11am, Carrington Park, Carterton. All ages, all fitness levels. Call Di [027] 498-7261. Free Literacy and Numeracy

Classes: At Literacy Aotearoa Masterton. Call Carol [022] 524-5994 or visit us at 340 Queen Street, Masterton. GirlGuiding: Masterton Pippins [5-7 years] 3.45-5pm. Call Chrissy Warnock 372-7646. Justice of the Peace: Masterton CAB 11am-1pm. Knit and Natter: 3pm, Wairarapa Community Centre, Perry St; 7pm, Te Awhina Cameron Community House, 2 Stuart Cres, Masterton. Other handcrafts encouraged. Mah-jong: Carterton RSA, 1pm. Call Margaret 379-8681.

Masterton Alcoholics Anonymous: 7.30pm, St Matthew’s Church Hall, 35 Church St. Call Anne 378-2338 or David [021] 116-5505.

Masterton Croquet Club: Golf Croquet 9.15am behind the Hosking Garden in the park. Call Russell Ward 377-4401. Masterton Judo Club: Tues/Thurs, youth class 5-6pm, adults 7-8.30pm, Nga Totara Dojo, 205 Ngaumutawa Rd, Masterton. Contact Simon [021] 248-6111.

Masterton Senior Citizens and Beneficiaries Association: Social indoor bowls, 500 cards, or a chat 1-3pm, Senior Citizens hall, Cole St. Call Ngaire 377-0342. Masterton Toastmasters: Meet fortnightly, Salvation Army Hall, 210 High St, Carterton, 7.30pm. Call Wayne [027] 335-5825.

Masterton Toy Library: 10am-1pm, at rear of Masterton YMCA, 162 Dixon St, Masterton. Paint/draw: From live model,10amnoon, at Masterton Art Club, Victoria St. Call Elissa Smith [027] 470-6528. Red Star Table Tennis Club: 9amnoon at Red Star Sports Association 10 Herbert St, Masterton. Call Peter [027] 566-4664 or Brian 377-4066. Scallyrag Border Morris Dancing: 7-8 pm at the Auditorium, Kuranui College, Greytown. Contact Alison [021] 111-1894. Social Bridge: At South Wairarapa Workingmen’s Club, 1.30-3.30pm. Call Lesley [021] 299-6389.

South Wairarapa Badminton Club: Featherston Sports Stadium, Underhill Rd, 7.30pm. South Wairarapa Workingmen’s Club: Games afternoon. Call Doff 304-9748. Taoist Tai Chi: 6-7.30pm at St Mark’s Church Hall, 185 High St, Carterton. Contact www.taoisttaichi.org

The Book Lovers Corner: 3.304.30pm on Arrow FM {92.7FM] and available online, https://www. arrowfm.co.nz/programmes/ show/94/the-book-lovers-corner-/ Wairarapa Genealogy Branch: Family History Research Rooms, 5 Church St, Masterton, 1-3.30pm. Wairarapa Modern Jive: Carterton School hall, 7.15-7.30pm Intermediate workshop; 8-8.45pm Beginners class. Contact Lance [021] 134-5661. Wairarapa Services Club: Cards, Euchre, 1pm, at the club, Essex St, Masterton.

Woops A Daisies: Leisure Marching

Team practice 4-5pm, at the Trust House Rec Centre Stadium. Call Cheryl [06] 370-1922 or [027] 697-6974.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 28

AA Meeting: At 7.30pm, Epiphany church hall, High St, Solway, Masterton. Call [027] 557-7928.

Athletics Wairarapa: Club night, 5.45-7pm, Colin Pugh Sports Bowl, Masterton.

Cards: “500”, 1.15-4.15pm, at the Carterton Club. Call Barbara 379-6582 or Val 379-8329.

Carterton Cycle Group: From Belvedere Rd [weather permitting].

Call Irene [027] 634-9167 or Lesley [021] 299-6389.

Dance Fitness: 9.30-11am, preschoolers with parents or caregivers, music and movement and art, at Fareham House Hall Featherston. Call Justine [0204] 105-2830.

Digital Seniors Wairarapa: Call 0800 373 646 for an appointment.

Masterton: Citizens Advice, 10-noon.

Free Classes: Literacy, language and numeracy for adult learners. Call Literacy Aotearoa 377-4214.

GirlGuidingNZ: Masterton Brownies, 7-9½ years, 5.30-7pm. Call Sharon [021] 033-0550. Greytown Menz Shed: 9am-noon. Call Paul Dodge [021] 0262-6595.

Healing Rooms: Confidential prayer for healing or any situation, 2-4pm, at St Matthews Church Hall, Church St, Masterton. Call [027] 245-2819.

Heart of Arts Wairarapa A community gallery, 47 High St North, Carterton, Wed-Fri, 10am-4pm, weekends, 10am-2pm.

Juesday Art: 10am-12.30pm, AOG

Church, Birdwood St, Featherston. Call Julia [06] 308-8109.

Justice of the Peace: Masterton CAB noon-2pm. Kiddie Gym: For 0-3-year-olds, 9.3011am, at St David’s Church, corner High and Victoria Sts, Carterton. Call Lorna or Abby 379-8325.

Martinborough Men’s Shed: Old Courthouse, 20 Cork St, 9am-noon.

Call Doug [027] 444-7331.

Masterton Art Club: 10am-2pm, also print on Fridays, at 12 Victoria St. Call Elissa [0274] 706-528.

Masterton Croquet Club: Association Croquet 9.15am and 12.45pm behind the Hosking Garden in the park. Call Carl Redvers 3787109.

Masterton Park Bowling Club: Queen Elizabeth Park, bowls roll up at 1pm, names in by 12.45pm. Call 377-5458.

Men’s Group: Meet for support and friendship, at the Salvation Army Village, Ngaumutawa Rd, Masterton, 7-9pm.

Parkinson’s Singing Group: 10am, at the South Wairarapa Workingman’s Club, Main St, Greytown. Call Marguerite Chadwick 379-5376.

Rangatahi to Rangatira Youth Group: Join us for sports, food, and leadership, Carterton Events Centre.

Text “R2R” to [027] 742-2264.

Recreational Walking Group: 9.30am, Essex St car park. Call Ann Jackson, 372-5758, or Ann Duckett, 378-8285.

Scrabble Club: 1-4pm, in the stadium meeting room of the Trust House Recreation Centre, 2 Dixon St, Masterton. Phone Sue McRae [027] 449-0601. Silver Ukulele Club: 1-3pm, Featherston Community Centre. Call Jan [06] 308-8556.

Soulway Cooking and Crafts: 10amnoon, High St, Masterton. Call Nikki Smith 370-1604 [church office].

South Wairarapa Caregivers

Programme: Caring for your loved one who is unwell, at a café in South Wairarapa. Call Kirsten 399-1050.

Te Runga Scouts: Cubs, 6-7.30pm, 45 Harley St, Masterton.

The Dance Shed 450A Belvedere Rd, Carterton. Line Dance Class 6-7pm; Rock N Roll Dance Class: 7.308.30pm, Beginners/Couple Coaching, Social/Competitive. Call Wendy [027]

319-9814.

Wairarapa Rockers: Rock’n’roll. Couple inquiries to [027] 333-1793.

Wairarapa Services Club: Rummikub, 1pm, at the club, Essex St, Masterton. Wairarapa Singers: Choral singing, based in Masterton. Call Sean Mulcahy 379-9316.

Wairarapa Spinners & Weavers: 10am in The Wool Shed, Dixon St, Masterton. Call Trish 378-8775 or Josie 378-6531.

Whakaoriori Shufflers: Line dancing, Red Star clubrooms, Herbert St, Masterton, improvers 5-6.30pm. Call 377-5518 or 377-1135.

Wisdom and Well-being: Featherston Community Centre, 10.30am-12.30pm. Call Pauline [021] 102 8857.

* To have an event listed please email event@age.co.nz by noon Thursday prior

Public Notices

NOTIFICATION OF WEIGHT AND/OR SPEED LIMITS ON BRIDGES

Notice is hereby given that pursuant to Regulation 11(3) of the Heavy Motor Vehicle Regulations 1974, the Masterton District Council has fixed the following maximum weight and speed limits for heavy motor vehicles and combinations including a heavy motor vehicle on the bridges described hereunder:

SOUTH WAIRARAPA DISTRICT COUNCIL NOTICE TO CLOSE ROADS TO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC

Pursuant to the Transport (Vehicular Traffic Road Closure)

Regulations 1965, notice is hereby given that the South Wairarapa District Council, for the purpose of the Festival of Christmas, will close the following roads to ordinary vehicular traffic for the period indicated hereunder.

The Festival of Christmas is a month-long programme of spectacular lights, Night Markets, workshops, events, Matariki activities, parties, food and free entertainment that takes place in Greytown in July 2023. The Festival is designed to bring together families, school children, community groups and locals, and attracts people from all around New Zealand to the Wairarapa to eat, drink, shop and celebrate. The festival aims to enhance the reputation and strengths of our region, and deliver social & cultural benefits.

The opening and closing nights in particular attract large crowds of people to Main Street. In addition, we would propose Night Markets along McMaster Street. To ease congestion, maximise safety, and provide more space for crowds, we would like to close McMaster Street from Main Street to East Street during the busy times.

During the period of closure, vehicles will need to take these alternative routes:

• Cars can travel down East Street or Main Street, turning at Church Street or Jellicoe rather than McMaster. Residents in McMaster would not be able to access their driveways with vehicles during this time, only by foot.

Roads to be closed:

• McMaster Street, Greytown, full road closure between Main Street intersection and East Street

Period of closure:

• Saturday 1 July and Saturday 29 July 2023, 1pm – 9pm

Postponement date for Saturday 1 July is Sunday 2 July

Postponement date for Saturday 29 July is Sunday 30 July

Stefan Corbett Group Manager Partnerships & Operations

Local Community Grants Fund

The Local Community Grants Fund is to support Carterton community groups and organisations where their activities benefit community in the Carterton District.

Wairarapa Wide Regional Grants Fund

The Wairarapa wide regional grants fund supports community groups and organisations where their activities benefit the wider community in the region. When allocating this fund applicants will require evidence that support has been requested from at least one other Council in the Wairarapa.

Applications and funding criteria are available by:

Collection at the Carterton Events Centre, Holloway Street

Contacting Becks on 06 379 4081 or Becks@cdc.govt.nz

Download from the Carterton District Council website.

[Attention is drawn to the applicable infringement fees set out in Schedule 1 of the Land Transport (O ences and Penalties) Regulations 1999, which apply to these limits.]

D Hopman

31 May 2023

Classifieds

Employment

ELECTRICIANS REQUIRED

We are looking for Registered Electricians to join our team. You will need to be:

• Currently NZ Registered

• Enjoy a team environment

• Wish to continue further training

• We would like someone with light industrial and commercial experience with knowledge on security and heat pump installation.

Remuneration packages will be negotiated on candidates experience.

If you would like to join McKenzies Electrial 2000 Ltd please contact: jobsatmckenzies@gmail.com

All applications will be treated con dentially.

LIFESTYLE BLOCK WORKER

Seeking ag eneral hand for a lifestyle block in the Wairarapa Region, clo to Riversdale Beach to carry out ground and maintenance operations

To Let

com

Retired? Night Owl?

Want to top up your Super? Earn extra dollars?

FARM WORKER REQUIRED

For a 540 cow farm with 33 aside herringbone shed This property is situated 5 minutes from Featherston, Martinborough a Greytown in South Wairarapa Would suit school leaver or someone wanting to enter the dairy industry. Must be a team player, honest, reliable a motivated pers with current drivers licence. Happy to discuss options e g hours, days.

Contact Andy on 0 277 4866 or kahutara.cows@gmail com

GENERAL FARM ASSISTANT Fixed Term

Masterton Dair y Unit runs 550 cows 224ha a is supported by good facilities, including a 46 asi de HB shed

Successful applicants will have the following attributes:

A minimum of 12 months dairy farming experience.

Positi attitude & good work ethic

Ability to work in a team environment

Current drivers license

We are seeking a self-starter, who is fit and reliable to deliver the Times-Age into the letterboxes of our loyal subscribers.

You will require a reliable vehicle and be available Monday - Saturday, with the ability to start work late night/ early morning.

Does this sound like you? Contact Nick today on 027 251 0616 or email nicolkelly71@gmail.com

For more details, please phone James Mancer on 021 308 760 or email your applications to james mancer@taratahi ac nz

For Sale